I’ve been building large stunt props and creatures for panto and other shows for over a decade, and have had the chance to make some incredible things. I particularly like the chance to create puppets and magic tricks – there’s nothing like a seemingly impossible challenge!
For Cinderella I built a table that contained a pop-up carriage – when the cover and pumpkin on top were removed it unfolded into a full-size golden carriage, complete with wheels. I also built a quick change costume for Cinders later in the show.
I created props and set for Terry Pratchett’s Wyrd Sisters, including digital woodcut style backdrops, a remote-control fire with cauldron, crowns, brooms, a trick washtub hiding a demon actor and a smoke machine, and a selection of discworld themed product packages.
For Sinbad I built a Roc – a 4m tall giant bird with a cable-operated beak, and a magical inflating raft.
I also built a friendly derpy dragon for Sleeping Beauty, and a 5m tall giant for Jack and the beanstalk – as you can see the frame barely fit in our flat and was a bit of a surprise in the morning…
