Classes put the professional into panto dames

Six panto dames have been given an expert's insight in Cornwall into how to be a panto dame.

Actor and tutor Edward Rowe, who is Dame Trott in Jack and The Beanstalk at the Hall for Cornwall in Truro, said some of the main attributes were being "confident and sassy".

Among those taking his advice at the dame masterclass was BBC Spotlight reporter Johnny Rutherford, who admitted he was not a huge fan of pantos.

But, after dressing up and making up, he looked a proper showstopper.

Panto dames seeking knowledge and advice at the Hall for Cornwall's masterclass were from all around the county.

The learning was "absolutely wonderful", said Jamie Pascoe, of Cape Amateur Performing and Entertainers.

"There are some quality performers here. It's been an absolute treat to come along to this," he said.

David Taylor, of St Enodor Pantomime Society, said it was "so nice to be here with the other dames" and sharing make-up tips".

Edward Rowe said: "I think you've just got blokes that like a good laugh, like dressing up and making people laugh.

"I think you've just got to be confident, you've got to be sassy... And you've got to be bad at putting on your make up."

What also helped was being a "bang average singer with a deep voice singing really high songs", he said.

"I'd also say it's really important that you can look at the audience and make them feel comfortable and, ultimately, maybe one fella really uncomfortable."

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