EastEnders star Clair Norris has taken the next step in her career since leaving Albert Square earlier this year. She is currently starring as Fairy Sunshine in the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk at the White Rock Theatre in Hastings.
Joining her on stage is fellow former soap star Richard Blackwood, known for EastEnders and Hollyoaks roles. The show has already begun performances and will continue until Sunday, 4 January.
Norris told the Sussex Express that she had wanted to try pantomime last year. She explained that moving into her first home and hosting Christmas stopped her from taking the role.
This year, she said, her schedule was free and she wanted a fresh challenge. “Everyone I spoke to said, ‘You’ve got to do pantomime,’” she said, adding that it offers a fun, completely different experience.
She described performing in panto as allowing adults to feel like children again, especially during the festive season. Norris said she is not doing this solely for her CV but to tick off new experiences.
She described her character, Fairy Sunshine, as very positive and speaking mostly in rhyme. “I’m bringing a bit of sass to the role,” she added, noting it is a joyful performance.
The actor also recalled that her birthday falls on 30 December, which felt “awful” as a child. She said performing in a pantomime now makes her birthday special with a festive treat.
Looking ahead, Norris revealed she wants to explore many more career opportunities. “I’d like to do theatre, a play, or a drama,” she said, emphasizing her desire to discover her strengths.
She believes stage work will offer her new challenges after her TV career in EastEnders. The White Rock Theatre is hosting Jack and the Beanstalk with almost two shows daily from 20 December, except Christmas Day.
Tickets start at £25 per person, providing families a festive entertainment option in Hastings. EastEnders continues to air Monday through Thursday at 7.30pm on BBC One and streams early at 6am on BBC iPlayer.
Clair Norris Panto promises audiences a lively and heartwarming festive experience, highlighting her versatility beyond television.
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