Savadier goes down the pantomime rabbit hole

Published

15 hours ago

October 22, 2026

Staff Reporter

Award-winning actor and writer Russel Savadier plays Lewis Carroll, the author-narrator, in the Alice in Wonderland pantomime. The SA Jewish Report caught up with him during rehearsals.

What drew you to the part of Lewis Carroll in this year’s panto?

A chance to work with the wonderful [writer-director] Janice Honeyman again. We’ve worked together many times over the past 125 years. I would never say no to anything she asks me to do.

You have done so much work on television, film, and stage, but have you done a pantomime before? What challenges does it offer?

I’ve done one pantomime in my career. That was so long ago, it was when they were still done at the Market Theatre. Jack and the Beanstalk – playing Mayor Mumbly. The major challenge is keeping up with all the extraordinary energy on stage. It’s a whirlwind out there!

Will you be singing or just surrounded by singing? Either way, how does your one deaf ear affect things?

I’m a very good shower singer, but wouldn’t expect anyone to pay good money to listen to me sing! So, I’m surrounded by wonderful singing voices. I was born deaf in an ear and it probably contributes more to my sense of musical timing than the actual notes. I can’t imagine what it would be like to have 100% hearing. I’ve gotten very used to it.

How is your singing voice?

Karaoke friendly! I love musicals though. I collect them.

Tell us about your Jewish or Jew-ish upbringing and life?

My father was an atheist. My mom had a reasonable connection to her Jewish roots. I had a Barmitzvah (as did both my sons), but my Jewishness lay dormant for most of my adult life. Since marrying my wonderful second wife, Diane, I’m far more connected to my Judaism and the Jewish community. You’ll find us doing Shabbat most Friday nights.

What do you love about the Alice in Wonderland panto?

Mostly the energy! Being part of this extraordinarily talented group of performers. It’s just such fun – how could you not love it?

Tell us about your role.

I play Lewis Carroll, the author of the original Alice in Wonderland. I’m the narrator and the link to the story and all the magic that happens.

What is your opinion of Lewis Carroll and his work?

He was pretty “out there”, wasn’t he? Quite the visionary – his own imagination must have been quite spectacular. Would be so interesting to have a conversation with him now.

There is a beautiful message in Alice in Wonderland. How would you describe it and what can our children (and adults) learn from it?

I think the message is to open your hearts and minds, to always keep exploring. To be open to new adventures. Hold on to your inner child – always!

What is the next challenge on your list?

I go straight into rehearsals for The Bodyguard next year. Another musical – where I don’t sing.

Tell us about the gems in your cast and panto team.

There is honestly so much talent in the cast it might be unfair to single anyone out. I will say that Ashley Scott who plays Alice is super talented and she’s going to knock many socks off.