A Scots showbiz star who thought his panto career was over last night spoke of his delight at his surprise return to the stage.
Comedian Johnny Mac was part of the cast of Cinderella at Glasgow’s King’s Theatre, which had to shut at Christmas before the end of its run due to new Covid attendance rules introduced by the Scottish Government.
But within 24 hours, Buttons discovered he could go to the ball after all – by stepping in as a replacement in at another panto 300 miles away in Birmingham, starring Jason Donovan.
The same restrictions on numbers at public gatherings do not apply south of the Border.
He said: “After being closed at the King’s Theatre, I opened with 24 hours notice in a completely different show.
“I have never been in Birmingham Hippodrome.
“The talented Matt Slack unfortunately couldn’t perform.
“What a whirlwind, I can’t thank Michael Harrison enough for the opportunity and trust to be in his amazing show, all the cast and crew have been so amazing helping me.” Ironically, Johnny replaces Matt Slack, who has taken ill with coronavirus in the production of Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
He had just a day to learn his new lines in the part of Ringo, the Ring Master topping the bill alongside former Neighbours star Donovan.
Johnny’s wife, Stephanie, is also a panto star, working as a choreographer in Cinderella at the Pavilion before it closed.
A spokesman for Birmingham Hippodrome said: “We are very sorry to advise that Matt Slack has tested positive for Covid-19 and is unable to appear in Goldilocks and The Three Bears until he completes a period of isolation. This currently affects performances up to and including at least Thursday, December 30.
“Until then, the part of Ringo the Ringmaster will be played by award-winning comedian and actor Johnny Mac, who will join Jason Donovan and the rest of the Goldilocks cast.”
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