If there’s one thing you should know about Allan Cooke, it’s that he believes Christmas is meant to be messy, joyful, and just a little unpredictable. His favourite holiday memory? The year he and his cousin surprised their family with a full-blown custard pie fight, “a big lovely mess,” as he calls it. That sense of fun and mischief fits him perfectly in his role as Martin in Cow Patti’s production of Ethan Claymore’s Christmas.
Allan’s approach to the holidays, much like his career, is filled with a mix of humour, heart and a healthy dose of British flair. Growing up, his favourite presents were Action Men and Transformers, the kind of toys that sparked imagination and adventure. These days, though, he’s a bit more refined. “Nowadays, a good book does the trick,” he says. His current read, Perdido Street Station by China Miéville, is “super weird and horrific.” Then again, he jokes, “Perfect for Christmas, right?”
When it comes to festive food, Allan doesn’t mince words. “Yorkshire pudding, nothing comes close!” he declares. It’s a traditional taste of home that pairs perfectly with his other British holiday favourites, like Fairytale of New York by The Pogues, Lonely This Christmas by Mud, and Barry White’s soulful It May Be Winter Outside (But in My Heart It’s Spring). For movies, he’s all about The Muppet Christmas Carol, proof that even a seasoned actor appreciates a good dose of whimsy.
Allan’s charm doesn’t stop at the dinner table or the stage. When asked who he’d most like to share Christmas morning with, he quips, “What’s Charlize Theron up to these days?” It’s that mix of playfulness and charisma that audiences can expect to see on stage this season.
After “a while” in the business (as he modestly puts it), Allan remains grateful to still be doing what he loves. Along the way, he’s shared scenes with some well-known names, including the Jonas Brothers in their upcoming film. He describes them simply: “Nice chaps.”
These days, Allan calls Alberta home, where he’s come to love two things above all else; the nature and, of course, the steaks. His life motto? “There’s many ways to love. Embrace them all.” It’s the kind of wisdom that fits beautifully with both the spirit of the season and the heart of Ethan Claymore’s Christmas.