Victoria only jointed Captain Fantastic in July last year, but as she says, quickly realised it was the job for her. Victoria realised very early on that she wanted to be in the entertainment industry. She’s been singing and dancing since the age of 4 and after drama school went on to acting in plays and doing some producing.
Victoria
Hobbies? I like to cook. I have two dogs so I like long country walks. I also do cross-country skiing.
Favourite Disney film? Peter Pan. It was also the first panto I ever saw when I was about 5. I remember I said to my Gran “I want to do that!”
Dream birthday cake? Definitely chocolate cake. With lots of layers. And some cherries.
What is your favourite trick to perform at a Captain Fantastic party?
The traffic light trick. The kids all shout out really loud to tell you what colour it is. It’s not really even about the trick itself, it’s more about getting everyone involved. It’s lovely that even the youngest kids can join in and understand what all the different colours mean.
Apart from the entertainer (obviously), what is an absolute “must have” at a children’s birthday party?
Adults. It sounds like a really strange answer, but get the adults to stay. Parties should be for everyone, not just the kids. Make a children’s party more of a family event. It’s a bit like Christmas, everyone says it’s for the kids, but I disagree. It’s about all having fun together. The kids enjoy it more when the adults stay, having a room full of people of different ages is far more fun than just a room full of five-year-olds. Plus, the adults can get the kids to come out of their shells a bit more and help everyone to join in.
If you could have a party anywhere, where would it be and why?
I’d love to do a party at a Zoo. I love animals. We could have the show, and then go on a safari around the zoo and see all the animals. Hippos are the best. I’ve always said I would love a hippo. I’d keep it in the bath because they love water. I’ve thought it all through!!
What would your top tip for parents be when they are organising their child’s birthday party?
If you’re having a disco, check your venue has blackout curtains. Children’s parties are often during the day when it’s light outside and you really need it to be dark in order to get the most out of your disco. Also, check the parking! Village halls usually have their own car park, but for other venues, especially some in central London, parking can be an issue. The entertainer will need to be able to park close to the venue to unload, especially if you’re having a disco as there is a lot of equipment. And of course the parents. Some might be dropping off and picking up later and, before you know it, it becomes really busy and chaotic – a bit like the school run! There is so much going on on the day of a party with all the setting up etc, I hate having to interrupt the parents to ask if I can “leave this door open” or “just get past”. Try and time your party to give everyone enough time and space to arrive and leave safely.
You’re soon starting Captain Fantastic’s newest franchise. What made you decide to become a franchisee?
It was a really quick and easy decision actually because I enjoy the work so much. I’ve run after-school clubs before and I enjoy working with children. I knew within a month of working at Captain Fantastic that being a children’s entertainer was what I really wanted to do. I’m quite focused and practical and, having been self-employed since I was 19, the whole process wasn’t daunting for me at all. It just seemed like the obvious next step. The Captain Fantastic team are really supportive as well, so I know I’ll always have someone to ask for advice when I need it.
Cheers, Victoria!
If you’d like Victoria, or any of our other awesome children’s entertainers, to come to your party, get in contact today!