Panto magic as cast arrives for rehearsals

Sheila Reid who is best-known to television viewers for her role as ‘Madge’ in ITV hit sitcom Benidorm, was joined by the rest of the cast including Olivier award nominee Jimmy Johnston, who will play the Dame Sarah the Cook, Mark Pearce, who recently appeared in the musical Carnaby Street at the White Rock Theatre as King Rat, Will Haswell as Dick, Abigail Matthews as Alice and the return of panto favourite Ben Watson who plays Simple Simon.

Leading the creative team is director Nik Ashton whose credits include the award-winning musical Matilda in London’s West End.

Joining the professional dancers on stage, are several local dancers who successfully auditioned earlier in the year.

Howard Barnes, theatre director, said: “We are delighted to welcome such a fabulous cast to Hastings, and this year’s pantomime Dick Whittington will continue the reputation that the White Rock Theatre has of offering a first class production which will delight adults and children alike.”

Dick Whittington at the White Rock Theatre, opens on Friday 13 December 2013 and runs until January 4 2014. Tickets available online at whiterocktheatre.org.uk or by calling the ticket office on 01424 462 288.