Interview with Little Red Riding Hood & The Wolf

Actors Kate Powell and Adam Horvath took some time away from Little Red Riding Hood to answer a few questions about this year’s Children’s Christmas Show.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your previous acting experiences.

Kate – Since graduating with a BA(Hons) degree in Musical Theatre from Guildford School of Acting, I have been in various productions including  pantomime, musicals and have even performed on cruise ships in the last few years. Hereford audiences may recognise me from performing here at The Courtyard in the Snow Queen last Christmas and Hansel and Gretel at Easter.

Adam – I was the first recipient of Derby Theatre’s Brian Weaver Fellowship in 2014 and performed in their production of Brassed Off, The Odyssey and A Christmas Carol. I have recently played the Hare in Nottingham Playhouse’s Hare & Tortoise which has been good practice for the wolf ears I will be wearing during Little Red Riding Hood!

What can audiences expect from Little Red Riding Hood?

Adam – The show is a fresh look on a traditional story and audiences will need to be prepared to pick a side during the show. The production will have lots of audience interaction and an element of competitiveness.

Kate – The show’s writer, Nick Lane, introduces lots of other fairy tale characters into his writing that are tied in from the fairy tale world. Audiences can expect to see a few other characters making an appearance in Little Red’s story!

Little Red Riding Hood is aimed at children aged 7 and under – why do you think it is important for younger children to go to the theatre?

Adam – It’s important for younger children to go to the theatre for many reasons. Introducing children to the theatre at a young age helps to develop an audience which is great for the industry. It’s also an exciting and different way of learning and engaging young children.

Kate – The theatre is a great way to spark a child’s imagination and encourage creativity and it’s great for families to experience theatre all together with young children.

What would you say to any families who may be concerned about bringing their children to a theatre?

Adam – Don’t be hesitant about bringing your family to the theatre – it can be a great family day out if you pick the right show! Our production of Little Red Riding Hood is an intimate performance in the Studio Theatre that families can relax and enjoy together.

Kate – If you’re anxious then Little Red Riding Hood is a great introduction to the theatre as we meet the children before the play begins to help them feel more comfortable. Children are very much involved throughout the entire show and are actively encouraged to join in if they would like to!

Obviously as part of The Courtyard’s Children’s Christmas Show there will be some festive magic sprinkled into the performance. What makes this time of year so magical for you?

Adam – I love winter time. People seem more generous at this time of year and more appreciative of the smaller things in life that we sometimes take for granted.

Kate – For me Christmas is about community as people come together and just seem much happier during the festive season

Adam – Christmas dinner is also my most favourite meal of the year and if I had nothing else this Christmas I would be very happy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Little Red Riding Hood will be in The Courtyard’s Studio Theatre from Saturday 9 – Saturday 30 December. To book tickets, or for more information contact the Box Office on 01432 340555 or visit www.courtyard.org.uk.