Be afraid! Be very afraid as Mother Gothel makes a dramatic entrance on the Torch Theatre stage during this festive season. The scary sea witch tries her best to keep Rapunzel in the lighthouse, but will she succeed? Anwen made her way up the spiral staircase to find out.

Who is Mother Gothel? Will audiences love or hate her?

She is a Sea Witch who is pretending she is Rapunzel's Mother. She’s using the power in her magical hair to keep her young and absolutely stunning. 

Describe Mother Gothel in three words.

Sly, mean and well dressed

Do you enjoy playing the evil one? 

Very much so. Firstly - I have an evil wand!!!! Secondly- People can just boo to my face instead of behind my back like normal…. 

Is it more of a challenge playing a likeable or an unlikeable character?

Each have their own challenges. A baddy is particularly fun. I suppose it’s about finding the moments of play to make yourself deliciously unlikeable? 

Tell us a bit about other roles you have played at the Torch and which one has been the most challenging and why?

I was chosen to be a rat in the panto when I was a child. I’m still not over it.

Should audiences boo or applaud Mother Gothel when we see her? 

Hiss and Boo… and throw valuable items. 

What’s the nicest thing about Mother Gothel?

Her make-up. 

How important is it for children to realise that there is good and bad in the world and that good always comes out tops?

Good always conquers…. Especially when there’s goo and slosh to be thrown! 

Rapunzel, the hair-raising adventure can be seen on the Torch Theatre stage now until Sunday 28 December. Ticket price: £24.50 | £20.00 Cons | £78.00 Family. For further information visit the Torch Theatre website www.torchtheatre.co.uk or phone the Box Office on (01646) 695267. 

Image: Chris Lloyd