Interview with Ronan Evan Johnson, Sinderella
Conducted by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic
Back on the stage over the festive season following last year’s sold-out production of Snow White, The Entertainment Providers return with a new adults-only pantomime, Sinderella. A fantastic alternative over the festive period from 19 December at Scala London, we sat down with Ronan Evan Johnson, who stars in the show, to find out more.
1. Can you tell us a little bit about your character, Buttons, and how this “adult” version of Cinderella differs from the classic fairytale we all know?
So Buttons is Sinderella’s right-hand man, and really and truly, he’s a little bit in love with her! Buttons is entirely in the friendzone, and the joy of an adult Panto is that he can express those feelings and his annoyance at being second pick a bit more. He’s always got a quick remark to make at the expense of any of Sinderella’s suitors, but he isn’t necessarily the sharpest tool in the shed.
2. Have you performed in pantomime before? If so, how are you using your previous experience to help shape your portrayal of Buttons in this production?
I have been very lucky to perform in many pantomimes before! Panto is where I got my start in the theatre at the age of 7, and I continued to do one every year at my local theatre, Craic Theatre Coalisland, right up until 2020. I then re-entered the Pantomime scene last Christmas at the wonderful Princes Hall Theatre in Aldershot as a swing for their production of Beauty and the Beast and it was an amazing experience. I learned so much and had the best time so it definitely reignited the Pantomime bug!
3. What has it been like in the rehearsal room so far? Have any particularly chaotic or hilarious moments stand out — or ones you can’t wait to see how the audience reacts to once the show opens?
Well we had our press day and just getting to see everyone’s ridiculous costumes and makeup was brilliant. We also took to the streets for some photos and to do some flyering and I think the beautiful people of London were definitely intrigued by this group of brightly coloured, makeup-covered actors prancing through the streets. I’m absolutely buzzing to get in front of an audience. The joy of pantomime is that no two nights are the same and with a show with this much audience interaction we are guaranteed to get some great moments from the public!
4. If you weren’t playing Buttons, what other character would you love to play in this panto?
A few years ago I would’ve said the prince as that was always what I would’ve played but if not buttons I’d love to be one of the ugly sisters. They are hilarious and they have free reign to say and do what they want and audiences absolutely eat it up! I think Buttons is perfect for me but given the chance, I’d love to be an Ugly sister!
5. Traditional pantomimes are usually created for families to enjoy over the festive season. Why do you think adult pantomimes are such a great option for audiences who still want that festive tradition—but with a more grown-up twist?
I think the joy of Pantomime is a universal thing. Adults and children alike love the shows and there’s something in it for everyone and I think taking such a joyous, family oriented style of show and making it adult only really takes people to the fair. It gives the over 18’s a chance to engage in that childlike wonder of Panto but also appeals to their more mature humour. I mean who doesn’t want to see a 6ft 8 inch drag queen playing Cinderella?
6. If your character had a dating profile, what would their bio say?
“I’m telling you to loosen up my buttons babe (uh huh)” ~ The Pussycat Dolls.
7. Why should people grab their tickets to see Sinderella in London this festive season?
Everyone should be grabbing tickets to see this show because the cast are sooooo insanely talented, it has something for everyone and it will be a night like no other to have some festive fun. Plus, I hear the guy playing buttons is really really really handsome ;)
Catch Sinderella at Scala from 19 December - 11 January 2026.
