We sat down for an exclusive interview with Talya Soames who plays Buttons in Cinderella And The Matzo Ball. Written by Nick Cassenbaum, directed by Abigail Anderson and brought to musical life by Musical Director Josh Middleton and his onstage band.
This show runs from 7th December 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026 at JW3 – Tickets here.
How do you approach balancing Buttons’ traditional role as the lovable sidekick with the unique Jewish cultural twists in this reimagined pantomime?
I think I’m quite lucky because, unlike other magical or fantasy lands, Kosher Kingdom has tangible elements that I personally connect with through my Jewish background. That connection has helped me understand the world of the story on a deeper level, which means I can relax and just have a lot of fun!
How do you keep Buttons grounded and emotionally resonant amid the comedy?
Button’s is a human being after all, just wonderfully exaggerated. All the comedy is coming from his real emotions, which is what will keep him grounded. As long as I stay connected to what drives him, the comedy will come from a truthful place.
What has been your biggest challenge in bringing such high-energy clowning and warmth to a character that also delivers key emotional beats, like the duet with Cinderella?
Buttons is rooted in genuine emotions. His feelings are real and valid, so even in the most heightened moment, I want to make sure I connect to those beats. A lot of his energy is from his love for Cinderella, wanting to impress her, please her and be a good friend. That sincerity is what will give the comedy its heart!
As a performer in a uniquely Jewish pantomime, how do you think Buttons helps bridge the cultural and comedic elements for audiences who may not be familiar with all the references?
Comedy is the perfect vehicle to invite people into something unfamiliar. Buttons & Cinderella act as the audience’s best friend and will hold their hand through the story. They set the tone of “If you don’t understand everything, that’s okay – just have fun with us!”
Pantomimes is, by nature, a very warm, open and generous space, both for performers and audiences. Our Panto is unique because it’s rooted in Jewish culture. So those who recognise the references will feel right at home and for those who don’t, they will be welcomed into our home, with warmth and open arms!
What was your process in developing Buttons’ physicality and voice to fit both the traditional panto world and the specific world of the Kosher Kingdom?
Button’s and I are quite similar, mischievous, naughty and a joker – so I am just using my natural bonkers instincts.
How does performing in a live klezmer-infused pantomime shape your timing and interaction with both the band and the audience night after night?
Nothing beats performing with live instruments, it makes everything feel very present and exciting! This is first time I’ve worked with an accordion in the band, and I’ve been fascinated. The sound is so magical and brings such a special type of feeling to the songs, that I can’t quite put into words – but you will understand once you hear it.
Also, I feel very grateful to be sharing the stage with such talented and generous performers and musicians. Their energy keeps every show fresh. I can’t wait to feed off them (and the audience’s) to make every performance unique.