ABOUT

Newcastle-born actor & writer Tom Whalley graduated from Northumbria University with a BA (Hons) degree in Drama & Scriptwriting before training at Associated Studios, London graduating with a diploma in Musical Theatre. He went on to make a name for himself as a performer, writer and composer working with a number of theatre companies, directors and creatives in the North East and in London.

Passionate about pantomime, Tom made his professional debut in ‘Aladdin’ at the Sunderland Empire as PC Pong in 2015 with UK Productions and, after reprising the role in Bath, Tunbridge Wells and Rhyl, he returned to ‘Mackemland’ in 2019 where he is now proud to be resident comic and writer of additional material. 

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Tom writes: "Pantomime is not only a much loved British tradition and festive staple but it is often a child’s first experience of live theatre. Most every performer/actor/dancer/singer you’ve ever seen was once a captivated child at the pantomime experiencing the magic of theatre for the very first time which is why I feel such a strong sense of responsibility when it comes to performing myself and crafting pantomime scripts for theatre companies around the globe. Without even realising it, we're inspiring the next generation as we were once inspired by the last. Pantomime is the lifeblood of theatre in the UK [as the old adage goes: "Panto pays for Pinter!"] and a successful season keeps the theatre doors open for the rest of the year and helps to fund more daring and perhaps less mainstream/profitable creative works. It may come as no surprise but I love pantomime – I love the electric energy just before the curtain rises in anticipation of two and a half hours of laughter, cheering, booing, singing and dancing all to take you away to a magical place whether that’s up a beanstalk to the clouds, off in a pumpkin coach to the ball or to the second star on the right and straight on to Neverland! There’s nothing better – oh no there isn't!"