As the anticipation builds for the opening night of The Torch Theatre’s upcoming pantomime Rapunzel, we spoke with set and costume designer Kevin Jenkins, the creative force behind the vibrant world of this year’s production.

Kevin's journey into the world of theatre design began as a secondary school Design and Technology teacher, with a deep love for school productions. “I was always involved with the school plays and decided that was what I wanted to do full-time. I went on to study at the Motley Theatre Design Course and completely changed my career path”, says Kevin.Since then, Kevin has gone on to work on a range of different genre designs but admits that pantomime and family shows hold a special place in his heart, “you can be bold, generous and full of heart all at once”, he says.

Kevin describes how the design process all begins with reading the script, generating initial ideas and then collaborating with director Chelsey Gillard about themes and pieces of Pembrokeshire’s identity that should be woven into the play. Then from sketches, to 3D digital models, Kevin states ‘it is a constant refining process, balancing all the fun of panto with a coherent visual language, right up until the opening performance.” Kevin describes this year’s set as playful, coastal and colourful, perfectly capturing the spirit of this year’s show.

What Kevin loves most about working at The Torch Theatre is the close collaboration between the design team and other departments. “Chelsey and I have been in conversation since the earliest ideas to get the visual storytelling right” he states, “Panto is a big joyful beast that only works when everyone pulls together.” From stage management, to lighting design, to the workshop, everyone plays a vital role in bringing this production to life.

When asked what the secret is to the perfect larger-than-life Dame costume, Kevin reveals “a good Dame costume should get a laugh when it is first seen - the bigger the laugh the more perfect it is!” In fact, designing the Dame costumes is one of the most enjoyable parts about the whole process according to Kevin. “This year they have been inspired by her job, the Avengers, Pembrokeshire tourists, Stranger Things and a Friday night take away”.

In terms of other costumes, ensuring the characters come across as accessible and relatable via their outfits is very important to Kevin. “Chelsey has put a twist on this version of Rapunzel, so it’s fun to be able to do the same with the costume” he states. “Our Rapunzel is not some fairytale princess; she is hopefully someone the kids can see in themselves. For the Prince, the Nikes bring some contemporary swagger, rather than watching a distant fairy tale figure.”

Kevin views the design as just one part of the larger, exciting, pantomime experience. “This is all for the audience, especially the families that return year after year for a special night out.” He spoke of the importance and lasting impact of these shows, “I am well aware that for many children it is their first experience of theatre, and if my design is a small part of introducing someone to the world of the theatre, what can be more exciting than that.”

When we asked Kevin where he’d choose to live if he could stay in any of the sets from Rapunzel, he didn’t hesitate:“The lighthouse, without a doubt. It’s warm and calm whilst the weather does its thing outside. I love the idea of being tucked away by the sea with the light turning overhead. Mug of hot chocolate in hand!”

Which location would you pick? Come along and let us know!

Rapunzel will feature on the Torch Theatre stage from Saturday 06 December to Sunday 28 December. Price: £24.50 | £20.00 Cons | £78.00 Family. Relaxed Environment Performance - Saturday 13 December at 2pm. BSL Interpreted Performance (Liz May) - Tuesday 16th December 6pm. For tickets, click here.