Cast line up announced for Theatre Royal’s annual pantomime

The annual pantomime at the Theatre Royal, in Bury St Edmunds, is arguably the biggest event in any theatrical calendar.

This year the theatre is staging a production of Dick Whittington and it has now revealed the cast for the performances.

Taking on the title role Dick Whittington is Jessica Spalis.

Jessica has previously played panto at Theatre Royal as the lead in Aladdin and she is returning again this year.

As the lovely dame Winona Whittington, who was sighted this month in the centre of Bury St Edmunds, is Chris Clarkson.

Chris has been a highlight of previous pantomimes at the Theatre Royal and has played dame for many other theatres.

Playing the story’s villain Sir Reginald Ratfiend will be Tom Roberts and starring as the magical godmother Fairy Pearl is Sarah Lawn and can  currently be seen as Farmer Maisie in a spreadable cheese commercial.

As the hero’s love interest Alice Fitzwarren is Tessa Kadler.

This show will be amongst Tessa’s first professional productions having just recently graduated from Guildford School of Acting.

Playing a double role as the twin brothers Francis and Ferdinand Fitzwarren is Nigel Lister.

As Dick’s faithful sidekick Tommy the Cat is Corey Cross.

A keen dancer who has given his energy to many a performance including X-Factor, Comic Relief and Children In Need, this cat is definitely going to have some moves.

Lastly as the villain’s henchman Nibbles is Nerine Skinner. Nerine has most recently been working with a close friend to create a stand-up comedy duo who have taken two shows to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in recent years.

Dick Whittington has been written by Chris Hannon and will be directed by Theatre Royal’s Artistic Director, Karen Simpson. This will be Karen’s fourth pantomime since she joined the company.

This traditional style family pantomime is an in-house production by Theatre Royal and runs between Friday, December 1, and Sunday, January 14.

Tickets are on sale now plus the gala performance Sunday, December 10,  which includes goody bags for the children, ice-creams, programmes, a fancy dress competition, live music and entertainment pre-show, drinks, treats and light refreshments – all included in the ticket price. There are also numerous special offers available throughout the run, contact the box office for more information and to book tickets.