THE director of this year’s panto has promised to inspire and impress as he strives to involve the Redditch community in his production of Snow White this Christmas.
On Wednesday the cast, director, technicians and Palace Theatre team all met up together for the first time in preparation for this year’s pantomime.
Headlining the classic family pantomime is Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall, who is set to charm audiences with his powerhouse vocal talents as Snow White’s handsome prince, while kids’ TV presenter Dave Benson Phillips is set to play the panto funny man Muddles.
Nicole Faraday returns to Redditch as the ultimate panto baddie, the Wicked Queen, and stand-up comedian Andre Vincent stars as the larger than life Dame Dolly.
Actor Paul Winterford plays Herman the Henchman and Naomi Slater takes on the title role in her Redditch debut.
The all-important dwarves will be played by local children – who can audition for the roles at the Palace later in the year.
Director Peter Dayson said: “We will be auditioning local children to be a part of the production this year as dancers. It is very important to involve as much of the town as possible.
“Pantomime is such an important tradition because for a lot of children it is their gateway to theatre. For many children, the pantomime is their first experience of a production, so we have to make that special.”
Producer Paul Holman added: “Following on from a record breaking run of Beauty and the Beast last year at the Palace I am thrilled to be returning to Redditch.
“Jai and Dave are joining us on what is shaping up to be a stellar cast of sensational talent. Jai’s charm and amazing vocal talents and Dave’s showmanship will ensure this production is a truly magical experience for all the family.”
Snow White opens at the Palace Theatre, on December 6, running until December 31. Tickets ARE available from the box office on 01527 65203 and online at www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk
