Panto is the gift that just keeps on giving, and one Kent theatre's got a real Beauty lined up for us.

The panto Sleeping Beauty launching in Folkestone this week has got a trump card up its sleeve – an international model in the title role!

Actress Georgia Taylor, 17, will be appearing at the Leas Cliff Hall show between Tuesday, December 23, and Saturday, January 10. She is sharing the part with her childhood best friend Stephanie Coates, who will play Beauty in some shows.

Georgia, from Cheriton, has been performing since she was 10 and was scouted by an international modelling agency at 15. While both acting and modelling co-exist in Georgia’s life, taking to the Leas Cliff Hall stage taps into the performing streak that will always be Georgia’s first love.

What’s On got to know Kent’s potential future supermodel or – who knows? – Hollywood actress while her star’s on the rise.

How did you get involved in performing, Georgia?

“When I was 10 I was in a production of Oliver! with Bob Osbourne, who’s directing Sleeping Beauty. Kidz on Stage and Community Theatre Project helped me hugely with my confidence and it gave me my love of theatre. I specialise in singing and acting. Coincidentally, the other Sleeping Beauty [Stephanie Coates] happens to be my best friend and has always lived opposite me in Cheriton.”

What is it that you love most about performing in a show?

“I love the feeling of being on the stage and transforming myself into someone else, being able to live their life and tell their story for however long it may be. Not only that, but the rehearsal process and meeting new people who share the same love as me.”

Have you performed at the Leas Cliff Hall before?

“In at least 10 productions, if not more! The show runs have ranged from five to 20 shows per production, so a lot. I’ve been in three pantomimes before, one of which was Snow White two years ago. I played the title role and had an amazing time.”

Your modelling has brought you into contact with Victoria Beckham – how was she?

“I was scouted for IMG Models and when I was 16 I walked [on the catwalk] for designers such as Dior and Alexander McQueen, then not long after that I got the job for Victoria Beckham. It was a photo shoot, modelling her clothes for her website. I’ve met Victoria twice and on both times she’s been so kind. She’s really lovely. The second time I worked for her was in Paris, when her clothing line started to be sold in France’s equivalent of Selfridges and I modelled her clothes at the opening.”

Is modelling the career dream, or is it performing?

“Ideally I would be able to do both, but performing has always been my dream and I don’t think that I’d ever choose modelling over performing. My ultimate ambition would be to have a leading role in a West End musical.”

What is it that you’re enjoying about this particular panto, Sleeping Beauty?

“So far, the rehearsal process with the fantastic cast! We all get along so well and have such a great time. I can’t wait for the shows to start. My big song this year is from Phantom of the Opera and is called Think of Me. People can expect lots of great upbeat songs, audience participation, laughs and lots of fun.”

Sleeping Beauty is at the Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone, from Tuesday, December 23, until Saturday, January 10. Tickets cost £15.90 plus booking fee. Visit www.atgtickets.com/folkestone or call 01303 228600.