Classic Dick Whittington panto set for Beccles stage this Christmas

The streets of Beccles will be paved with gold this Christmas as a story of rags to riches will be brought alive on stage.

SparkLive Pantomines will return to the Public Hall for the fifth year running from December 20, for a 14-performance run of the British classic Dick Whittington.

It tells the tale of a young man and his cat who make the journey to London on a quest of fame and fortune.

But with the evil Queen Rat hot on his trail, expect raucous comedy, singalong songs and a purrfect sprinkling of festive magic.

Crowd favourite Daniel Hanton is back as Dame Sarah Sweetie, alongside popular comedian Ross Chenery, as Idle Jack.

Laura Watling will spread the fairy dust once again as Fairy Bowbells, while Rebecca Jillings will swap her 2018 role of the gentle Sleeping Beauty to play the villainous Queen Rat.

Jamie Coleman will play Tommy the Cat, the talented Faye Ainley joins SparkLive as Alice Fitzwarren, actor Josh Pickering has been cast as Alderman Fitzwarren, and 18-year-old Thomas Major will make his professional debut as Dick Whittington.

Producer Ryan Holt said ticket sales had already exceeded expectation.

“Our early bird ticket offer had a brilliant response earlier this year and since our sell-out run of Sleeping Beauty last year, we’ve added an additional two performances.

“This year we have a few new faces as well as those firm favourites that Beccles audiences have come to love. It’s important to keep discovering new talent to keep pantomime fresh.

“It’s an exciting year for us, as it marks five years of professional pantomime in the town. We have a fantastic show lined up with some hilarious slapstick routines, dazzling special effects and stunning costumes.

“The script has been written by London based Joe Burns and adapted by myself, Thom Bailey and Daniel Hanton. Rehearsals begin in November and we can’t wait to get started.”

Dick Whittington runs from December 20 to January 1 at Beccles Public Hall.

A family ticket for two adults and two children is £44, adults are £13, children, £11 and concessions are £12.

To book tickets, pop in between 10am and 3pm, Monday to Saturday, or call the box office on 01502 770060 during these times. Alternatively, visit www.becclespublichall.co.uk

Story by: Louisa Lay [email protected]

 

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