Grand dame of am-dram stage

It is a busman's holiday for Vicky Price who loves to have more than just a bit of drama in her life – be it comedy or tragedy.

The 26-year-old has a day job in Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre – and then spends her free time treading the boards for a Sandwell theatre group.

Vicky, who works as the press and public relations manager for the Grand, spent last week on annual leave – on stage at Oldbury Repertory Theatre where she was the star of the company's pantomime.

Because as well as working full-time at the Grand, where she promotes the many shows on offer at the city centre theatre as well as working with the acting stars, Vicky's love of the stage extends to her spare time.

She has loved all things theatre since childhood, becoming a member of Quarry Bank Operatic Society at the age of 10. She was keen for a career in theatre, having taken Performing Arts and Theatre Studies A Levels at Stourbridge College, before completing a degree in drama and theatre at Worcester University.

"I loved performing when I was child and I enjoyed doing plays when I was at university but I did always prefer the theory side of my theatre studies," said Vicky, who lives in West Bromwich.

While at university she joined Oldbury Rep, taking part in such productions as Brassed Off and Perfect Pitch at the Barlow Theatre in Langley.

Soon after finishing her degree she landed a job in the box office at Birmingham Rep and several months later moved into the theatre's marketing department.

"Part of my degree was in marketing and promotion, so it came in very handy for the role," she said.

Then seven months ago Vicky was delighted to take up a new challenge and new role at the Grand.

"Working in theatre was always my ultimate goal – and I'm very lucky to have a job I love so much.

"But it is a very demanding job and for the past couple of years I haven't had much time to take to the stage for Oldbury Rep.

"But I was asked to go for an audition for their Robin Hood panto at the end of January and was over the moon to land a part."

Vicky played the leading lady role of Maid Marion in the production, which finished its run at the weekend.

"It can be quite tiring doing show after show, so I've been on annual leave this week while I've been taking to the stage. It's my first panto and it's been fantastic.

"I get a real buzz out of playing a part, the whole theatre experience is fantastic."

So has she been able to pick up any tips from the stars of Cinderella, the Grand's current pantomime?

"I think the Krankies are absolutely brilliant – they have perfect comic timing, and I'd love to master that," she added.