Rehearsals in full swing for Theatre Royal pantomime

It’s nearly time for the curtain to rise on the Theatre Royal’s annual traditional family pantomime which this year is Dick Whittington.

The cast have been assembled and are now well into their rehearsal schedule, being put through their paces by director Karen Simpson, co-director David Whitney, choreographer Julia Cave and musical director Ward Baker.

The title role is played by Jessica Spalis. Jessica has previously played panto at the Theatre Royal as the lead in Aladdin and she is returning again this year. As the lovely Dame Winona Whittington is Chris Clarkson and playing Sir Reginald Ratfiend will be Tom Roberts.

Starring as the magical godmother Fairy Pearl is Sarah Lawn and as the hero’s love interest Alice Fitzwarren is Tessa Kadler. 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 and the villain’s henchman Nibbles is being played by Nerine Skinner.

You’ll have to move quickly if you want to secure seats for the performances leading up to and around Christmas, the best availability is now the first week of December and the last two weeks of the run in early January.

There are also a few seats left for the very special Gala performance on Sunday, December 10,  at 2pm, move extra fast if you want those and the pantomime runs from Friday, December 1, to Sunday, January 14.

Tickets are available from the Box Office on 01284 769505, online at www.theatreroyal.org or you can pop in and say hello in person.

Pictured above is rehearsals for Dick Whittington.