Pantomime Dames Reveal Secrets to Captivating Audiences

From boldness to star power, four veteran performers share their tips for embodying the iconic Christmas character.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:05am by

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring sharp, angular cut-out shapes in high-contrast black and white, conceptually representing the bold and dynamic presence of a pantomime dame on stage.The iconic pantomime dame takes center stage, captivating audiences with their unapologetic flair and comedic charm.San Francisco Today

The world of pantomime is a vibrant, chaotic wonderland, and at its heart is the iconic figure of the pantomime dame. But what does it take to embody this beloved character? Four seasoned performers reveal the keys to success, from being loud and brash to exuding star quality and charm.

Why it matters

Pantomime dames have become a beloved staple of Christmas entertainment, delighting audiences with their over-the-top personas and witty banter. Understanding the nuances of this unique role sheds light on the art of live performance and the enduring appeal of this cherished theatrical tradition.

The details

The pantomime dame demands a unique blend of boldness and charm, as the performers explain. Aunty Pru, played by Nick Downes, emphasizes the importance of finding the right balance, as the audience wants to see the dame making a fool of herself, but not to the point of overwhelming them. The hilarious duo of Aldianna and Lidleena, the supermarket-themed sisters in Cinderella, boast about being the 'people that people look forward to,' crediting their success to a delicate balance of flamboyance and silliness. However, Lucie Goose, played by Dion Davies, argues that star quality is the essence of a great dame, with the ability to captivate both children and adults alike.

  • The pantomime season runs from December through January each year.

The players

Nick Downes

An experienced pantomime performer who plays the role of Aunty Pru.

Aldianna and Lidleena

A hilarious duo who portray the supermarket-themed sisters in the production of Cinderella.

Dion Davies

An actor who takes on the role of Lucie Goose, arguing that star quality is the key to a great pantomime dame.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The audience wants to see the dame making a fool of herself, but it's an art to do so without overwhelming them.”

— Nick Downes, Aunty Pru

“We're the people that people look forward to.”

— Aldianna and Lidleena, Supermarket-themed sisters in Cinderella

“The dame is there to talk to the audience, to get them all going...”

— Dion Davies, Lucie Goose

What’s next

As the pantomime season approaches, audiences can look forward to seeing these talented performers take the stage and bring their unique interpretations of the iconic pantomime dame to life.

The takeaway

The pantomime dame is a beloved character that requires a delicate balance of boldness, charm, and star power to captivate audiences. These seasoned performers offer valuable insights into the art of embodying this larger-than-life persona, showcasing the enduring appeal of this cherished theatrical tradition.