Q&A with leading children’s entertainer and puppeteer Chris Garside ‘KRISGAR’ on Centenary Theatre's Cinderella

We’re thrilled to welcome the award-winning magician, ventriloquist, and beloved family entertainer Chris Garside, known professionally as Krisgar, to talk about his role as Buttons in Centenary Theatre’s first professional pantomime, Cinderella. With over 14 years of captivating audiences through magic and ventriloquism, Krisgar, alongside his cheeky puppet Tricky Teddy, brings humor and heart to every performance. This production is extra special as it marks Kris’s professional panto debut, a fitting milestone in a career inspired by his love of theatre. Rooted in the Berkhamsted community, this adaptation of Cinderellablends local charm, modern pop hits, and timeless fairytale magic to create a heartwarming and hilarious experience. Join us as we chat with Chris about the show, his journey, and the joy of bringing Buttons to life.

Tell us a bit about this adaptation of Cinderella

The script has all the traditional elements that you can expect from the pantomime of Cinderella, but there are a few twists and turns along the way. With Co-Founder of Smash Arts Theatre Company Dani Acors as Co-Producer, of course you can expect there to be an emphasis on musical numbers with amazing choreography. Samuel J. Holmes has also done a fabulous job with the script, there’s a key focus on the plot which is refreshing to see. 

What makes this production of Cinderella unique compared to other pantomimes you’ve seen or been a part of?

The fact it’s Berkhamsted's Pantomime is unique in itself and it has been specially written with many local references tied into the story. Although audiences will be transported to a fairytale world, it will still seem very close to home!

How does it feel to perform in a show that’s so rooted in the Berkhamsted community?

As a solo performer I have entertained many times in and around the Berkhamsted area, each time the audiences have been superb. A memorable occasion was in 2023 when Berkhamsted came together with a massive street party to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III. It was such a joyous occasion; it was clear everyone was so proud of their town and wanted to show off Berkhamsted in the best possible way. I hope Cinderella is an extension of that as every other major town or city has their own Pantomime, so why not Berko?  

How would you like audiences to react to the show?

It would be amazing to see locals support Berkhamsted’s first ever professional pantomime and to make it such a success that it will become an annual event for everyone to be proud of. There are many pantomimes around, but why go out of town when there’s one right on your doorstep? While a quality pantomime is never cheap, our ticket prices are extremely competitive compared to other professional productions in the local area. We don't have the luxury of previous shows to encourage attendance, but you have my word; I assure you; it's going to be an incredible show!

What's your favourite pantomime personally?

I have two, Jack & the Beanstalk and of course Cinderella.

Jack & the Beanstalkmarked my first amateur pantomime at the tender age of five, where I proudly took on the role of 'head butterfly'. My responsibility was to lead the other butterflies onto the stage at a specific musical cue. I remember waiting in the wings (no pun intended), but the cue didn’t come. The sound technician had been late in pushing the fader up on the music, causing my cue to be missed. With a gentle nudge from the stage manager, I went on stage undeterred, leading my kaleidoscope of butterflies through the forest. Jack & the Beanstalk was also the first professional pantomime I saw in 1997 at the Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, during a school trip and I’ve loved pantomime ever since!

Cinderella is one of my favourite pantomimes—it’s the ultimate fairy tale. I am over the moon to play Buttons, a role coveted by many lead comics. As Buttons, you're everyone’s best friend, helping to move the story along while providing ample comedic moments. Cinderellawas the second professional pantomime I saw in 1998, where Buttons was portrayed by ventriloquist Paul Zerdin with his puppet Sam, who later won America’s Got Talent in 2015. Seeing Zerdin’s performance, having previously only encountered ventriloquism at birthday parties, was awe-inspiring. Zerdin's performance was a pivotal moment for me, instilling a desire to one day perform as a ventriloquist in pantomime.

Over the years, I’ve attended many of the Paul Zerdin tours, seen his annual pantomime performances, and even got to know him personally. I’m so grateful for his encouragement too which has finally seen me land a professional pantomime role. It is fitting that the first professional pantomime I saw with a ventriloquist and puppet now mirrors my first professional pantomime role, 26 years later. Cinderella was also the last time I ever ‘trod the boards’ in an amateur production where I also played Buttons in 2009, I can’t wait to revisit this role in front of the wonderful Berkhamsted audiences this Christmas!

If you could describe this production of Cinderella in three words, what would they be?

Heart-warming, Hilarious, Berko-tastic!  

This heartfelt and hilarious production runs from December 19th to 31st at the Centenary Theatre, featuring incredible local talent and a story that’s as close to home as it is to the heart.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic—grab your tickets now and join in the fun: https://berkopanto.co.uk/