Meet Prince Charming…

Lee Mead will soon be heading the Cardiff to take up the role of Prince Charming in this year’s pantomime – Cinderella. We caught up with Lee to talk to him about all things Christmas, theatre and panto.

 

What is your earliest memory of theatre?

I grew up in Southend, so the Cliffs Pavilion was my local theatre. I went to see my first musical at the Cliffs Pavilion when I was nine or 10, it was Joseph. Throughout my years at school and college, I went to see various shows there. Going to see a West End show is so expensive for many people, it’s a once a year trip, so local theatres are important.

 

Who are you most looking forward to working with in Cinderella?

It’s hard to say, it’s such a great line-up. Sam and Linda have both been in pantomime for more than 20 years, so it’s great to have their experience. Linda is such a warm lovely presence. When I was younger, my dad had a bit of a crush on her, so when he and his friends found out I was doing panto with Linda Lusardi, they were excited. Having a joker like Gareth Thomas on board is going to be so much fun.

 

Will your friends and family be coming to see you in Cinderella?

My daughter Betsy will come at some point. She was so sweet last year when she came to see me in Robin Hood in Plymouth. I was worried she might be too young but she sat through the whole show and laughed at the end and talked about the characters. The whole cast and crew of Casualty, which is about 100 people, will also be coming at some point, so I’ll have to get my stethoscope out that night.

 

Does Betsy get confused seeing Daddy as a nurse one day and Prince Charming the next?

No, I think she has got the concept that it’s all just play and whether I’m Lofty or Prince Charming, it’s Daddy being a character. It’s quite sweet. I work on Casualty in Cardiff from Monday to Friday, and then go back to London to see her on weekends. On Sunday nights when I say goodbye I tell her Daddy has to go back Cardiff and she says ‘Are you going to be Lofty the nurse?’ I think she knows that it’s not real.

 

What are your career ambitions for 2015?

It looks like I’ll be staying on for another year in Casualty, which I’m really excited about. It’s a really great show to be part of. I also have some concerts solo concerts lined up, so lots to keep me busy.