Newark & Sherwood District Council

Panto stars bring Beauty to Newark town centre

With the schools having just returned from the summer break, the Palace Theatre in Newark is already turning its attention to Christmas time and has today launched its 2012 pantomime, Beauty and the Beast.

The theatre is welcoming back comedy legend, Bernie Clifton, who delighted audiences in last year’s production of Aladdin. Bernie and the famous Oswald the Ostrich were out and about meeting and greeting townspeople in Newark.

Bernie said: “It really feels great to be back in Newark. I can’t believe it’s come round to panto time again - time to dress up in ridiculous costume and fool around and I’m sure we’ll have the time of our lives.”

Joining Bernie this Christmas is John Pickard, best known for 2 Point 4 Children and Hollyoaks. John is appearing as Pierre, the village laughter maker, and he is relishing the challenge of playing against Bernie on stage. He said “Bernie has just had me in stitches already with his tales and anecdotes, and with everyone else [in the cast], it’s going to be a really nice year. “

Bernie, John and many of the other cast were out and about in the town today, meeting local people and visiting the town hall and one of the pantomime sponsors, Waitrose.

Acting Theatre Manager, Carys Coulton-Jones, said “We’re so excited to be launching this year’s pantomime. It’s always one of the biggest highlights of our year and it’s great to be able to get the cast into the town to meet as many members of the community as possible”.

Some of the theatre’s volunteer ushers were part of the launch too. One of those volunteers, Janet Long, said: “I’ve been volunteering at the theatre for a long time now and opportunities like this, to reinforce putting the theatre out there in the community, are great things to be part of. Pantomime is great fun and seeing Bernie, John and all the cast so enthusiastic today is a brilliant thing to watch”.

There are only a few weeks left to take advantage of the Early Bird booking discount of £1 off all premium and standard seats, which is valid until 30th September.

Beauty and the Beast is produced in association with Paul Holman Associates.

Tickets for all Palace Theatre events are available from the box office on 01636 655 755. Or book online. 

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