In our profile series, Tell Us In Ten, we ask cast members and creatives of top London shows to tell us all about themselves in just 10 questions. From how they got their start in the industry to their favourite shows, we want to know everything.
This time we chatted to Penny Layden who is currently playing Martha & The Judge in Coven playing until 17 January 2026. The scorching new musical, based on England’s most notorious witch trials, is directed by Olivier award-winner Miranda Cromwell who joins forces with writers Rebecca Brewer and Grammy award-winning Daisy Chute. Combining uplifting anthems and powerful melodies in a fresh reinterrogation of the true story of the Pendle Witch Trials.
1. My route into theatre was…
I began in good old rep at the New Vic, under Peter Cheeseman & ended up staying for a year, leaving with a full & varied CV – prepared for anything!
2. My West End idol is…
Anyone who works as a swing – keeping shows going for little glory, admirable stuff.
3. My colleagues would describe me as…
Warm, willing & gobby!
4. My favourite show (that isn’t one I star in/work on) is…
Changes all the time but my last favourite play was ‘English’ a co-production with the Kiln & the RSC.
5. The career moment I’m most proud of is…
Being named ‘The Spirit of the Shed’ by Ben Power after the last show in the National’s temporary space.
6. The hardest part about my job is…
The choreography! I get there in the end but it takes work!!
7. If I wasn’t an actor, I would be…
Miniature model maker or gardener.
8. Something people don’t know about me is…
I make stop motion animation with my partner.
9. The best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is…
“Mohammed Ali it …” believe in yourself & bring your best.
10. The one thing I wish I could tell my younger self is…
It’ll be ok.
Book to see Penny in Coven at the Kiln before 20 December.
