It’s still only September but Yorkshire funnyman Billy Pearce is ready for panto – oh yes he is!
The proclaimed ‘king of Yorkshire panto’ is returning to the Alhambra Theatre for his 14th Bradford panto, playing Buttons in Cinderella alongside actress and broadcaster Lynda Bellingham as The Fairy Godmother.
Yesterday’s launch got off to a fairytale start as the stars of the show were delivered to Bradford’s new City Park attraction in a horse-drawn carriage. A sprinkle or two of fake snow added to the Christmassy feel.
The line-up also features Leeds-born Brendan Sheerin, who became a household name through the runaway success of Channel 4’s Coach Trip, playing Baron Hardup.
Afnan Iftikhar, who this summer made it to the final stages of ITV’s Superstar judged by Andrew Lloyd Webber, will play the part of Dandini.
Michael Harrison, executive producer of Cinderella, said: “Led by the brilliantly funny Billy Pearce, we have an absolutely first-class cast lined up for Cinderella. With such a fantastic team this will be another action-packed and must-see Alhambra pantomime and will feature an abundance of comedy, fabulous sets, and outrageous costumes and, as Bradford audiences have come to expect, surprises galore along the way.”
Adam Renton, general manager of Bradford Theatres, said: “Christmas in Yorkshire wouldn’t be complete without the Alhambra Theatre pantomime. Since 1914, when the theatre opened, Alhambra pantos have been an essential part of the festive season in Bradford.
“Today’s launch event gave us a glimpse of what treats are in store for customers this year – they won’t be disappointed.”
The pantomime will include special effects created by The Twins FX – as well as real Shetland ponies.
Cinderella is produced by Qdos Entertainment, one of the foremost pantomime producers.
Cinderella runs at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford from Saturday, December 15 to Sunday, February 3, 2013.
Tickets can be booked by calling the Box Office on 01274 432 000 or online at www.bradford-theatres.co.uk.
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