Q&A with Cinderella – Faye Campbell

Faye Campbell plays the title role in Cinderella at York Theatre Royal after starring in the theatre’s Travelling Pantomime last Christmas. She trained at the Royal School of Speech and Drama and with the National Youth Theatre of GB. Her credits include Peter Pan Reimagined, The Hole, Snow White and RoadGirl.

Describe your character in Cinderella.

Cinderella is a modern day independent female. Loving, caring, strong-willed and a dreamer.

What was the first pantomime you ever saw?

I have seen many pantomimes growing up. And if I’m honest I couldn’t possibly remember the exact pantomime that was my first, but I always remembered the excitement of going to the pantomime. One year the family were that excited that we accidentally turned up a day early when the theatre was shut after rushing thinking we were late.

My Nan would without a doubt take me to see the pantomime every year when I was younger. It was her favourite thing! Unfortunately she passed away this year. She would have loved Cinderella, I’m sure. Every moment I spend in Pantoland is dedicated to her.

What was your best moment in York Theatre Royal’s Travelling Pantomime in 2020?

My best moments were seeing the kids faces light up and hearing laughter from the audiences. Singing Confident was a banger I always enjoyed to sing, along with the final song I Need You. When not busy on stage I enjoyed playing silly games with the cast, even though I wasn’t very good at them.

Is there another pantomime role you’d like to play?

At some point in life I’d love the challenge of playing the baddie in a pantomime. I’ve always wanted to explore that.

What has the pandemic/lockdown meant for you?

It has really reminded me to cherish every moment, be loving, look after yourself and the people around you. Everything in life can be incredibly fragile and is ever-changing. The lockdown particularly taught me that rest is okay. Rest can be just as productive as work. Not everything is a race. I enjoyed taking a moment to just be. To be whatever I wanted to be. Me.

DON’T MISS FAYE IN CINDERELLA, 03 DEC – 02 JAN.