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Magical Merlin - Georgie Macaskill Interview

Perform Productions proudly presents the return of Magical Merlin to the West End this October half-term for a limited run of magical, musical fun for children and their families.
Set in the enchanted world of Ancient Britain, Magical Merlin whisks audiences away to a land of witches, wizards and legendary adventures. When the baby King Arthur is born, his jealous sister Morgan Le Fay hatches a wicked plan to turn him into a hamster! It’s up to Merlin to stop her and save the kingdom. With the help of brave Sir Lancelot and kind-hearted Princess Guinevere, Merlin embarks on an epic quest filled with fire-breathing dragons, magical waters, and plenty of enchantment from the mysterious Lady of the Lake.
Georgie Macaskill
Bursting with catchy songs, dazzling choreography, colourful costumes and laugh-out-loud moments, Magical Merlin is a fast-paced, family-friendly musical adventure that celebrates courage, friendship and believing in yourself.
Whether you’re a young theatre fan or simply young at heart, Magical Merlin is the perfect theatrical treat this autumn. Expect magic, music and mayhem – and don’t be surprised if you leave the theatre believing in magic!
We caught up with cast member Georgie Macaskill who plays Ninianne/Mildred in the production.
What can you tell me about Magical Merlin? 
Magical Merlin is a wonderful story told through song, dance, magic and mayhem! Without giving too many of the magicians secrets away, it’s a heartfelt story about bravery and believing in yourself.
What attracted you to this production? 
Working with Perform Productions again! I last worked with the team in 2023 on the production ’Elephant and Piggie’s: We are in a play’ as part of their children’s theatre festival ‘Perform in the Park’ and had such a blast with them! 
How do you mentally and physically prepare for a performance? 
I could be really boring and pretentious and say that a rigorous vocal and physical warm up blah blah blah… but honestly, I HAVE to clean my teeth! It puts me in the show headspace ( and of course do a vocal and physical warm up too!)
How have you approached bringing yourself to the role/s? 
When first reading the script, I felt an immediate connection to Mildred Mudd because I could relate to the way the character behaves and responds to situations, finding myself doing the exact same! We have very similar quirks but I guess Mildred has the bonus of magic being involved. I also wanted to establish the relationship between Merlin and Mildred because it reminded me of similar student-teacher relationships I had with teachers growing up in which they nurtured and embraced my quirks. Merlin represents the mentors that would adapt lessons to accommodate us and make me/Mildred feel celebrated in my/her differences.  
What was the first piece of theatre you remember having a big impact on you?
To be honest, there are so many shows that have inspired me! I think a standout for me was ‘Fun Home’ at the Circle in the Square in New York. I went when I was 16, by myself, and was completely moved but the story and music. The staging completely immersed me. 
What keeps you inspired?
I think a few things continue to inspire me daily. Theatre trips being such a major one but more importantly it’s my students that I get the pleasure of teaching musical theatre to. They inspire me to push my creative side further and keep me on my toes. 
What would you hope someone takes away from seeing Magical Merlin?
There is a gorgeous lyric from the show that is playing in my head with this question and it’s this ‘all of us are magical’ and it’s true! I’d love if everyone who’s watched the show come away believing in themselves that little bit more. 
Where can people see the show?
We’re playing at St. Martin's Theatre in the heart of London’s West End during October half term! Come and see up from Monday 27th October- Sunday 2nd Nov!
Tickets for Magical Merlin are available from www.perform.org.uk/shows/magical-merlin.

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