Audiences can expect to be put under a spell as a mesmerising cast is announced for Sleeping Beauty at Gala Durham.
With a mix of new and familiar faces, this year’s pantomime at the theatre will see an all-North East-based cast come together.
Lizzie Glazier, programme manager of Gala Durham, which is operated by Durham County Council, said: “We are delighted to announce the cast for this year’s pantomime. It promises to be a fun-packed show full of laughter, surprises and more.
“It is great to be working with North East performers, showcasing the incredible breadth of talent that we have in the region. I’m sure families can’t wait to see Sleeping Beauty, they are in for a real treat.”
Returning for his third panto at Gala Durham, Jacob Anderton, who played Robin Hood in last year’s pantomime production, plays King Archibald of Durham-ion.
Also returning is Lauren Waine. Lauren previously appeared in Snow White and Robin Hood and this year plays Hester the Jester.
Prince Chad of Middles-boroughly will be played by Benjamin Storey, who appeared in The Nutcracker Re-Miced at Gala Durham last Christmas. Chloe Jane Millar, who recently graduated from ArtsEd, plays Briar Rose.
Sammie the Dog will be played by County Durham actress Jude Nelson, who recently appeared in A Way Home. Steve Byron, an actor with 35 years’ experience working in theatre in the region, will play the part of Nanny.
Having previously appeared in Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads at Gala Durham, Zoe Lambert rounds off the cast, playing the Evil Witch Karen.
Written by Gary Kitching and directed by Rachel Glover, Sleeping Beauty runs at Gala Durham from Wednesday 23 November to Sunday 8 January.
The hilarious new telling of the classic story sees Briar Rose about to turn 16. She has just found out that she is to be married to poetry-mad Prince Chad of Middles-boroughly. But her plan is to run away and escape with the help of best friend Sammie.
However, having not received an invite from King Archibald of Durham-ion to Briar Rose’s christening years prior, the Evil Witch Karen has cast a curse. This will see Briar Rose sleep for 100 years and she’s got one more spell up her sleeve to make sure that happens.
Tickets for Sleeping Beauty are priced from just £7, with family discounts available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Gala Durham box office on 03000 266 600 or online at www.galadurham.co.uk
