Bognor to enjoy its "first-ever" Panto on the Pier this Christmas

Performed by a cast that includes seasoned panto professionals, it will run for one week only, an original version of Cinderella that will “deliver seasonal fun for all with an illuminating twist.”

Produced in partnership with Bognor Pier, Panto on the Pier will take place in not one but two areas of Venue 24, the business name of the Grade 2 Listed historic building that dates back to 1865.

Panto on the Pier producer Katie Bennett said: “We are delighted to bring what we believe will be the first ever panto to Bognor Pier. The first part, the story element, takes place in the theatre at Venue 24. But the second part of the entertainment, the royal engagement ball, takes place downstairs on the only illuminated dance floor in the county! The audience will be invited to join the cast and to boogie on down to the Happily Ever After disco.”

Katie added the team behind the panto know first-hand how brilliant local audiences are: “Local actors Riley Clark, Vicky Edwards and I have all been lucky enough to be cast in pantomimes at The Alexandra Theatre in recent years. We know that Bognor audiences love panto, so when the chance to link with Venue 24 at the pier came up we jumped at the opportunity.

“In this brand-new retelling of the classic fairy story The Fairy Godmother has fallen on hard times. Having to take on additional jobs, including that of local news presenter, she also has to ensure that sweet Cinderella can go to the ball.

“But the Ugly Sisters are determined that if anyone is going to win the Prince’s heart it will be one of them. And then there’s the matter of a giant rampaging seagull! Even though everyone is excited about the ball, they are also twitchy as the beast terrorises the town, nicking everything from hot pies to hair pieces!”

Panto on the Pier: Cinderella runs from December 24-January 1. For tickets and performance times, visit www.tickettailor.com/events/venue24/1680020

The cast includes Riley Clark and Jim Apted as the Ugly Sisters, Vicky Edwards as Fairy Bognoria, Tom Uren as Prince ‘Hotty’ Hotham, Lily Barkes as Cinderella, Mark Flynn as Buttons and Milena Ruiz-Harrison as Big H the Herald.

Venue 24 operations manager Karl Drew said: “We are delighted to partner with the team behind this unique production. We look forward to filling the week between Christmas and New Year with fabulous festive fun for families at an affordable price.”

Katie added: “With song, comedy, slapstick and all the traditional panto elements, plus the opportunity to throw some shapes on the illuminated dance floor, this Christmas in Bognor Regis is set to be full of light, laughter, magic and sparkle!”