Local thespian, part of the Franklin Players, brings pantomime to life on stage
Experience the world of pantomime through the eyes of a passionate performer, Kate Hilton-Barber, whose love for theater unites communities and creates magical experiences for all.
For the past five years, Kate Hilton-Barber has been an integral part of the Franklin Players community, performing pantomimes at the Roosevelt Park Recreation Centre, and engaging in the magic of theatre both on and off the stage.
This year marks her third pantomime, a genre she has come to love and cherish.
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“A pantomime is a theatrical performance that tells a story through exaggerated gestures, facial expressions, physical movement, and musical numbers,” she explained.
Hilton-Barber said that they often feature fairy tales or folklore, and include interactive, comedic elements that engage the audience.
From a young age, Hilton-Barber developed a deep passion for musical theatre, and being part of productions filled with music, singing, and dancing fulfills a childhood dream.
“I greatly appreciate the interactive nature of pantomime, where the audience becomes an integral part of the performance, creating a lively and enjoyable experience for all involved,” she adds with enthusiasm.
With each performance, Hilton-Barber’s confidence and love for theatre continues to grow.
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“I’m reaffirmed in the knowledge of how theatre can bring a community together,” she shared.
“Leaving every show, I feel like I’m part of a family.” This sense of belonging is amplified by her recent accomplishment of landing a lead role in this year’s pantomime, The Elves and the Shoemaker, a milestone she proudly celebrates. However, the journey has not been without its challenges. “The most difficult part is the long rehearsals,” she admits. “With acting, singing, and dancing practices, we put in long hours, but it’s worth it to create a beautiful show.”
She draws inspiration from her favorite shows and actors, particularly Christian Borle, while also channeling emotions from her personal experiences to enhance her performances.
Pantomimes have been a time-honored tradition, celebrated during the festive season for centuries around the world. “Being a part of this enduring legacy is a beautiful experience,” she reflected.
These performances connect people from diverse backgrounds, uniting cast members and audiences of all ages. Pantomimes offer a unique opportunity for collective enjoyment, inviting everyone to participate, and share in the festivities. It also serves as a wonderful introduction for children to the enchanting world of theatre, fostering both learning and enjoyment, as stated by Hilton-Barber.
As she continues to shine on stage, her passion for pantomime not only enriches her life but also brings joy and community spirit to all who experience her performances.
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