The Hackney Empire has been a cornerstone of the borough’s cultural scene since 1901. It has been home to some of Hackney Central’s biggest events, but it is also known for spotting, nurturing, and celebrating young talent.
Few performers embody that quite like Hackney-born actor, dancer, and singer Siobhan James, who returns this winter to star as Cinderella in the Empire’s much loved annual pantomime.
James’ relationship with the historic venue began at a very young age. “I was four years old when I made my first connection with Hackney Empire,” she told the Citizen. “My first show was dancing ballet with the Carol Straker Dance Foundation, and from there forward, my growth in performing and the creative world flourished.”
Her career has since taken her from theatre to theatre, including touring with the cast of Rock of Ages and appearing on the West End in Moulin Rouge. Now, after years of performing in major productions, she returns to the stage that shaped her as she steps into her first leading role.
James’ dream to act has been lifelong. “It was an instinct from a young age. I always knew I wanted to be a professional performer,” she said. “It is something that clicked with me when I was a baby. Dance has always been my passion, love and way of expression.”
The competitive nature of musical theatre can often be a barrier for would-be performers. For James, these challenges have been part of the reward. “Becoming a professional in dance has put me in so many different rooms and on so many different stages that I am grateful for. I enjoy playing different roles and characters through dance. It is a way of challenging expression through movement,” she added.
But playing Cinderella will be no mean feat. Taking on such a beloved character comes with its own challenges. “I am so excited, but it is still sinking in,” she continued.
“It is such a full-circle moment and I feel blessed that I get to perform as a lead in my hometown.
“It is a beautiful feeling to know that the promise I made to myself, that I would be a lead, is coming into fruition. And to be a lead at the Empire is icing on the cake.”
James may have an impressive résumé, but performing night after night still demands care and discipline. She relies on ritual to stay grounded and keep herself centred. “Praying and meditation are the best ways for me to ground myself. Physically, the body is like a car engine that you have to keep running with the right fuel, so eating healthy food and training make me feel secure in knowing I can give my best performance every night,” she explained.
“I am grateful for my family and friends. Spending time with close ones grounds me and fuels me.”
Each production James has worked on has shaped her in a different way. “Rock of Ages was my first show and I had such a fun time touring with the company,” she said.
“The show had so much comedy and wit. It was fun to hear the crowd engage with the rock songs and comedy, and to play out different characters within the show.
“Moulin Rouge was one of the best experiences I’ve had in my career so far. I am grateful I got to be part of such a high-energy show. Being a can can girl meant I had to be at my strongest to maintain endurance during the run.
“I learned so much on that show, growing a lot as a performer and a person.”
Pantomime carries its own unique demands, and requires performers to work within a very unique theatrical tradition.
“I believe pantomime holds a place where the audience can feel closer to the performers, through breaking the fourth wall, comedy, and through the festive atmosphere,” James continued.
“I am enjoying working within the environment while bringing to life a grounded and warm version of Cinderella. I would like the audience to feel that.”
Looking to next year, James shows no sign of slowing down. “I would love to revisit panto at the Hackney Empire. It would also be amazing to return to the West End and go into commercial work.”
Cinderella runs at the Hackney Empire from Saturday 22 November to Wednesday 31 December.
