WITH rehearsals for the Torch Theatre’s fabulous and festive panto, Rapunzel, well underway, actress and choreographer Freya Dare feels right at home on her local stage playing the role of Zephyr the Puffin.

Freya is no stranger to acting and dancing and runs her own theatre company with her mum, Lynda, who writes original plays inspired by children’s classic literature with an environmental message woven into them.

“I started dancing when I was three years old. I was always dancing and unable to sit still in the house and very frequently asking my brother can you do this move that I’d made up. My amazing mam took me to my first dance class, and I just loved the feeling of freedom and joy that dance gives you.

“I believe dance is like an extension on language where you can communicate how you really feel on a deeper level where words sometimes fail. Dancing can express how we feel and help us to let go of emotions. I love the way dance brings people together. Most of my happiest memories are with groups of people dancing together and absolutely, I think everyone should give dance a go. Dance is something natural we all have within us! I teach dance classes to all ages and abilities from very young children to people in their 80’s and you still see the same joy for movement to music.”

Freya will not only be playing the part of Zephyr – a very physical role with lots of dancing and wiggling - she will also be choreographing the whole pantomime.

“I work with the music and lyrics as my initial inspiration. Our amazing Musical Composer, James Williams, always creates a diverse range of music that expresses characters feelings on another level. I use choreography as an extension of that feeling.

“When working on a comical song I’ll use the physicality of the character and the words of the song to dictate the choreography. Last year in a song for Jack and the Beanstalk I used sign language for the Fairies song that encouraged the audience to join in. I love how sign language expresses words physically and really complements dance.”

The panto has a nautical feel to it with a Pembrokeshire lighthouse playing a huge part in the story. Dancing will range from sea-themed numbers to lots of fun choreography that audiences get up in their seats and copy.

“I am envisioning some inspiration for choreography from sea related activities such as Charleston/comedic rowing boats and choppy seas/shipwreck inspired dancing - as well as fun, joyful movements that audiences can join in with.

“Pantomime is my absolute favourite season! I love seeing audience completely letting loose, shouting out, belly laughing and dancing along. It’s so lovely to be a part of people’s Christmas.”

Rapunzel will feature on the Milford Haven theatre’s stage from December 6 to 28, with a Relaxed Environment Performance on December 13, 2pm and a BSL Interpreted Performance on Tuesday, December 16, 6pm.