UMVA has learned that Vivian Panka, star of the Mean Girls UK tour, has shared her terrifying experience in Belfast during the recent riots, revealing she's 'scared to leave her house'.
The musical, currently on tour in Northern Ireland, has had all shows cancelled due to the disorder, including a scheduled run at the Grand Opera House that was set to begin on Tuesday night. The decision to cancel was made with safety concerns for everyone involved.
Vivian, who is the first black actress to portray Regina George, took to TikTok to share her experience but has since deleted the video. She expressed her sadness over the situation and fear for her safety, especially as a person of colour.
Riots have broken out across Belfast, with police preparing for a third night of violence triggered by a knife attack. Vivian described the scene as 'very scary', with fires in the street and concerns for the safety of her company, particularly those who are people of colour.
The actress revealed that some fans have messaged her, angry that the shows were cancelled, but asked for consideration for the cast, especially those who are people of colour, as 'people are actively targeting black people'. She emphasized that the cancellations were not their choice.
Vivian, born in the Netherlands and moved to London a few years ago, admitted to being 'very careful' and scared to leave her house, having kept her curtains closed out of fear. She had been cast as Regina George in March, calling it 'monumental' at the time.
A spokesperson for Belfast's Grand Opera House confirmed that the producers of Mean Girls have taken the difficult decision to cancel the musical's run at the Grand Opera House, citing uncertainty caused by the unrest. Ticket holders will be contacted directly regarding refund arrangements.
