It's panto Time
THERE'S a nip in the air and the nights start drawing in... the most magical time of the year is on its way to South Yorkshire. It's PANTO time!
We've compiled a round up of the region's top productions to help you find your Christmas fun – and with a gallery of stars at the major productions this year you are all spoilt for choice.
Rotherham
This year, the fantastic tale of Cinderella will be bringing the festive season to life at Rotherham Civic Theatre.
An all-star cast will be headed by Coronation Street heart-throb Tom Hudson, who will be playing Dandini.
Tom, who recently set Britain's favourite street alight – literally – as Terry Duckworth's son, Paul Clayton, is no stranger to the stage or screen, having also starred in the likes of Grange Hill, Casualty, The Royal and Heartbeat.
Backing Tom up as Cinderella, will be the beautiful Jessica Negus.
Jessica is already a veteran of the stage, having previously starred in Snow White, Jack and the Beanstalk and Aladdin.
Joining Tom and Jessica will be another panto veteran, Andy Fleming, who will be providing the laughs as the cheeky, but lovable, Buttons.
Corrie star Tom said: "I can't wait to get on the stage in Rotherham – I've been told the audiences here are some of the best in Yorkshire and that the theatre has a wonderful atmosphere.
"I hope everyone can come and join us this December and January. I'm sure every performance will be amazing. Panto is the best time of year."
For tickets contact the box office on 01709 823621 / 01709 823640, or alternatively drop in – the box office is located in the Central Library and Arts Centre on Walker Place – to pick up your tickets in person.
Runs Tuesday, December 1, 2009 to January 11, 2010. Tickets from 9.50
SHEFFIELD
Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs is Sheffield Lyceum's 2010 offering, with a star-studded cast.
The ever popular Damian Williams stars as Nurse Nellie, Toyah Wilcox plays the Wicked Witch and comedian and radio Sheffield presenter Toby Foster is making his first steps into the world of panto as the Dame's son Muddles, who gets everything wrong.
I caught up with Toby and Toyah after they posed for the customary promotional snaps.
Said Toby: "I came to see Aladdin last year with my kids. I saw Damian playing the dame and he was so good at it, I decided I would like to have a go!
"There is nothing finer than making a lot of kids laugh at Christmas.
"I cannot think of a higher calling. It is a bit odd to be working with Toyah... when I was 14, she was the gorgeous girl at the top of the charts – and she is still gorgeous".
Toyah has been no stranger to controversy during her 30 year career, which has seen her top the charts with arty-punk hits like It's a Mystery, star in iconic films like Quadraphenia – and latterly bare her life in reality TV shows.
She is also now something of a veteran in the panto world.
She said: "I have played the Witch Queen about six times and I love it. I do like to make the audience hate me."
Tickets now on sale at the box office, 0114 249 6000.
Runs December 10, 2009 to January 10, 2010. Tickets: 12 - 20.BARNSLEY
After a year at the Metrodome, the Lamproom Theatre Company's annual panto is back at the Lamproom's base this year.
This time's show is Aladdin and his Magic Lamp. The ticket hotline can be accessed on: 01226 321741.
Runs December 12-30, 2009. Tickets – adults 12, conc 11, Groups of 10 or more, 10 each, family ticket (two adults plus two children) 40
BIRDWELL
The Academy Theatre presentation of Mother Goose will take place at 311 Sheffield Road, Birdwell, Barnsley.
Presented by the James Brandon Company in association with the Theatre, the show features special offers for groups and schools. Start Times: 10am, 1.30pm & 6.30pm during weekdays. 2pm and 7pm on Saturdays.
For more information visit the website on: www.theacademytheatre.co.uk
Runs from December 3-24, 2009.
WATH
Dick Whittington and His Cat will be putting in a festive appearance at the Montgomery Hall, Church Street, Wath Upon Dearne, this year, thanks to the Far Out Theatre Company.
This panto is one for all the family as Dick goes in search of his fame and fortune on the streets of London. Bookings now being taken. Visit the website at: www.farouttheatre.com
Runs from January 27-31, 2010.
DONCASTER
If you don't fancy Rotherham's Cinderella, Doncaster have one of their own, at the Civic Theatre! This family spectacular stars the hilarious "Chase Me!" Duncan Norvelle as Buttons. FIFI gives a special guest Appearance and Liam Mellor and John Triggs are the Ugly Sisters.
Produced by Doncaster Council in association with David Lee for Pantoni Pantomimes.
For tickets call 01302 342349 or visit www.doncastercivic.co.uk
Runs December 9 2009 to January 3, 2010. Tickets from 6.50
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Weather for South Yorkshire
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 12 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North east
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