Paul Nicholas hooked on Hastings’ panto

He will appear as Captain Hook in this year’s panto Peter Pan at the White Rock.

His theatrical success began in 1969 in the original production of Hair, followed by the lead role of Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar.

Paul created the role of Rum Tum Tugger in Lord Lloyd-Webber’s Cats, and he has starred in numerous musicals including Doctor Dolittle, Camelot, 42nd Street, Charlie Girl and Jekyll and Hyde.

In 1992, Paul formed a production company with fellow actor David Ian and are responsible for co-producing the sell-out 20th anniversary concert tour of Jesus Christ Superstar and two of London’s biggest hit musicals: Grease and Saturday Night Fever.

The first pantomime Paul watched was Cinderella at the London Palladium, when he was about five years old, and he fell in love with everything about it. Many years later Paul performed on that very stage in Cinderella, proving that dreams really can come true.

He said that he did not have a preference for producing, directing or performing, but just likes to be involved with shows that the public will enjoy.

He added: “Peter Pan is such a well-known magical story that children love, I am looking forward to being part of that.”

Tickets at www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk or 01424 462288.