Worcester Theatres have today launched their pantomime for this year, Beauty and the Beast. Cast members; Daniel Cane, who will be playing this year’s Dame, Charlotte Swarbrick who will be starring in the role of Belle and Jack Giblen who takes on the role of Beast arrived in costume at the city’s stunning Guildhall to meet with this year’s Worcester Repertory Company Director, Paul Milton (who is Cheltenham Everyman’s Creative Director.)
Paul Milton says: “Audiences are eagerly awaiting this production after the event was postponed last year and we promise that this year’s show is going to be worth the wait. I am thrilled to be directing the very first pantomime for the Worcester Repertory Company under Worcester Theatre’s new branding and I’m looking forward to producing a pantomime to reignite and re-inspire the artistic and creative heart of Christmas in the county.”
Last year Worcester Theatres, along with every other theatre across the country, were faced with the disappointing reality that the 2020 pantomime would not go ahead following the Winter lockdown measures which were put in place by the UK government.
Speaking about the financial strain this put on the industry, Worcester Theatres’ Chief Executive Officer, Sarah-Jane Morgan said: “Our annual pantomime is such an important event for us financially. Most theatres across the country find that the pantomime contributes greatly to their revenue annually so we really felt the strain as a result of the event not going ahead last Winter. Our audiences have previously said how the Worcester Rep panto is the most family-friendly pantomime in the surrounding area and we pride ourselves on this – this year will be no different. I am delighted to be working with Paul Milton on this year’s production and I am highly anticipating the joy we will once again be able to bring to our loyal patron’s this year when the curtain rises on the production of Beauty and the Beast!
Beauty and the Beast opens at Swan Theatre on Tue 30 November and runs until Sun 2 January. Tickets can be purchased online at worcestertheatres.co.uk or via the Box Office 01905 611 427.