Currently, Anthony Sahota is playing Aladdin at the Marina Theatre in Lowestoft for their pantomime Aladdin, alongside a cast including Robin Windsor and Daniel Wallace (Anna Phylactic), with the show running until 1st January. Last year, Anthony toured with David Walliams’ Billionaire Boy, and alongside his theatre career, he is a professional motor racer and stunt performer. Having worked with Anthony on previous features, this year, we spoke to him about being in the cast of Aladdin at the Marina Theatre in Lowestoft, playing the titled character in the pantomime and his stunt work.

What are you looking forward to most for playing the title role in Aladdin at the Marina Theatre in Lowestoft this Christmas?

Bringing the energy to the stage! Aladdin really resonates with me, the selfless meaning behind the story and so I feel showing that on stage is something I’m looking forward to!

I also love all the singing elements in the show, showcasing this will be a highlight!

Have you played the character before and what can audiences expect from your portrayal?

Yes, I played Aladdin last year and in Dubai in 2018.

I think people would expect to see me with loads of fun energy. I feel like Aladdin links very closely to myself in daily life. So bringing that fun and silly charm to stage is something to expect.

How was it meeting the Aladdin cast for the first time and what do you enjoy most about performing in pantomime?

I’ve been lucky enough to have worked with Princess Jasmine (Mia Longman) last year and we have such a genuine connection on stage together. I’m very fortunate to have such a talented cast and crew this year. Everyone bringing their own unique elements to the show.

What I do enjoy most about performing in panto is bringing that magical element to the stage. It not only inspires the younger generation but it brings magic to this time of year, all through live performance, which I think is very powerful.

What is it like interacting with pantomime audiences and seeing families getting involved?

It’s the reason why I do what I do!

Seeing people engage and give that energy back is the main reason why I wake up in the morning. Pantomime gives anyone the excuse to have fun, laugh and be totally engrossed in a story!

Why would you recommend booking tickets to see Aladdin at Marina Theatre, which runs from 12th December until 1st January?

We really do have some very special elements in this show that stand out. From flying to actual magic! This show has everything to offer, definitely something not to miss.

What was it like participating on the BBC1 talent competition Let It Shine?

It was the biggest learning experience ever! The show allowed me to grow as a performer, whilst showing me what I needed to work on. I met and worked with the best in the industry and I felt like a sponge throughout the whole process.

I felt very proud being a special hit on the show, as I feel this backed up all the years of hard work in the background. So when the opportunity came around and Gary Barlow turned up at my graduation, I knew I had to make the most of the opportunity.

How would you sum up your career after your time on the BBC talent show?

It’s been a whirlwind, in an amazing way! I’ve performed all over the world and met many incredible people along the way. I feel that throughout my performing career, I’ve managed to tick most of the things I wanted to achieve. From being on some UK tours, being a part of an Olivier nominated show to playing stunt roles on movie sets. My aim was always to be versatile in this industry and I’m fortunate to have managed to use this skill.

Having been a professional performer for several years, what roles have you most enjoyed and why?

Ironically I really enjoyed being a stunt double, having to embody someone’s movements and replicate them whilst using my skill set to pull a particular shot off has always been a highlight. I always really enjoy technical elements to any project I do – the risk factor always gets me excited to push through!

From the stage perspective, I really enjoy being Aladdin and bringing my energy and
charisma to the stage.

In addition to acting and singing, you also hold a racing license and a pilot’s license, how did that come about and how often do you get to use them?

I try to use them every year! My aim in 2024 is to continue racing and gain more experience. It’s always a hard battle to get on the track as it relies heavily on sponsorship. But I know my passion and ‘drive’ to push this forward will be worthwhile in the end.

I can’t wait to get back out on the track and be competitive!

Where does your love of singing, dancing and performing come from and how did you get into the industry?

My mother used to be a singer and loved performing. Ever since I remember it’s been an escape for me, that eventually developed into a career!

When I was younger, I used to play the drums and started a band with a very close friend of mine. This was the foundation to my music and writing skills. This developed into acting as I joined acting classes and eventually played a main child role directed by Andrew Lloyd Webber in Whistle Down the Wind at the Mayflower in Southampton. This sparked more enthusiasm and passion within me and everything performing only grew after that!

How do you like to spend your free time?

I love writing music, and keeping up with my fitness as I think this is super important for mental fitness.

And also, driving! I love getting out at any opportunity and racing/driving to take my mind away.

What advice would you give a new performer starting out?

Whilst you’re young, be as adaptable and malleable as possible. Have an open mind and leave your ego at the door. A big thing for me is to always focus on your weaknesses rather than focusing on your strengths. Always evaluating yourself instead of being content is a great way to make sure you have longevity in this tough industry.

What are you hoping next year brings for you and do you have any upcoming plans that you can tell us about?

I’m hoping to continue performing on stage and on TV/film projects. With my upcoming projects, everything can be accessed online via my content on Instagram.

I have some exciting racing plans in action for 2024 and hope to be on the grid racing in the Porsche club. Along with continuing my stunt work on movie sets, where I specialise in flying (wirework) and driving.

Mainly keep waking up, excited to go to work and push boundaries and experience new things!
Bring it on ✨

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