Shmukler brings Blue Fairy magic to Pinocchio

Gina Shmukler is about to perform as the Blue Fairy in the annual Janice Honeyman pantomime in Johannesburg. The SA Jewish Report caught up with her in early rehearsal. 

You have performed so many varied roles in your career, but pantomime is one you have rarely touched on. Why? 

Honestly, my husband always wanted to leave Joburg on 16 December, so the panto was out for me. After Mamma Mia, I made a commitment to myself that I had to perform once a year, as it truly is my soul’s happy place, and here I am. 

What was the last pantomime you did, and when did you do it? What was that like? 

Wow, you are giving my age away! I was in my twenties. It was Snow White, for Janice Honeyman at the Joburg Theatre. I loved playing her, and still remember the magic of that show. 

What drew you to do Pinocchio? 

I guess it’s not so much Pinocchio but doing the pantomime itself as an adult performer. Pantos bring magic, and they are pure theatre, and I have loved taking my daughter to the annual panto since she was four, so what a treat to be a part of it this year! 

What is it about this pantomime that you really enjoy? 

I’m writing this in our first week of rehearsal. I’m loving watching all the young talent in the cast. They are fierce, disciplined, and fresh. It’s also a space where we can bring our own flair to the character and create. 

What has been challenging, and how did you deal with it? 

Words, words, words! The Blue Fairy has a lot of words! 

Describe the role of The Blue Fairy of Goodness Gracious? 

The Blue Fairy of Goodness Gracious, aka Bella Bouboulina of many blues, is sassy and fair. She loves a bit of fun and naughtiness while going about her business, making magic, and ensuring that Pinocchio learns his life lessons in order to become a boy. 

What would you like people to remember about this character? 

The Blue Fairy brings magic. If only we could wave a wand, and goodness would trump evil. What I would love the kids to take away from this is that you should always listen to your conscience – that niggly voice that tells you what’s right and wrong. If that voice is there – don’t do it! We may have a kinder place for kids – and adults. The truth always wins, even if it’s hard. 

How close is this character to your personality? What’s similar or different? 

There are similarities in that I genuinely believe in kindness and always strive for fairness. I wish I had a magic wand that brought peace to all. 

How did you make it your own? 

As in all theatre processes, but especially with Janice, you are empowered to create and mine the material to make it your own, to bring the truth and the joy. 

Is working on a pantomime different to other forms of theatre/musicals? 

Pantomime is a much more interactive and energetic connection with the audience, and a willingness to break the fourth wall (shatter the imaginary barrier that separates the stage from the spectators), which is thrilling and demanding. 

What’s it like to work with Honeyman, especially as this is her 38th pantomime? 

Working with Janice and her entire creative team is super. I have had a long working relationship with her, and I carry the gems she shares as she is directing my work. Even as I teach, I tell students, ‘This is Janice Honeyman 101, remember these things.’ Someone should capture all her wisdom in a book that gets handed down to all generations. 

There are some beautiful lessons in this story. What would you most like your own child and the children around you to learn from it? 

Tell the truth, be kind, and remember to see the magic! 

• Janice Honeyman’s 2025 pantomime of Pinocchio will run from 31 October to 24 December 2025, at the Joburg Theatre.