With rehearsals in full swing, members of Mansfield District Council have remarked their annual pantomime is about much more than just a few hours of entertainment.
This year Mansfield Palace Theatre is set to be taken over by the magic of Aladdin, as the cast have just begun rehearsals ahead of the Christmas period.
Image: The cast of this years panto.
A number of famous faces make up this year’s cast, including former CBeebies actor James Mackenzie, who is set to play Abanazar.
Commenting on his role, the Scottish actor said: ‘I have played the baddie in panto many a time, so I hopefully know what I’m doing. I suppose there was a darker side to my alter ego of Raven back in the day so here, a slightly darker, more stern side.
‘I love doing panto. It’s so much fun – it beats having a real job! I’m looking forward to getting the show up and running and getting into a rhythm and entertaining the audiences of Mansfield.’
In addition, comic veteran Adam Moss is also joining Mackenzie on stage. He will be performing the part of Wishee Washee – this will mark his 11th year in the town show.
‘They are proper panto people here and they absolutely love panto, from kids right up to older members of the audiences,’ Adam said. ‘They’re a lovely audience – they don’t get offended easily and love to come and watch a good bit of entertainment. You can expect comedy, magic, mayhem – and I might even learn my script this year.’
He continued: ‘I have just met the cast of eight and they all seem like an absolute cracking bunch and I can’t wait to introduce them to what Mansfield is actually like.’
As well as the pantomime providing a joyous escape from reality – something individuals might really be looking forward to – Adam Hill, chief executive of Mansfield District Council, claimed the pantomime is also really good for boosting the towns economy.
Cllr Hill said: ‘It’s not just about the enjoyment of pantomime itself that is important for Mansfield. It also brings an economic value, whether it’s an overnight stay, going out for a meal, coming shopping, or making a day of it. Visitors might also look at the museum, or at other cultural programmes.
‘The knock-on effect is ten-fold from the purchase of one panto ticket, to that feelgood factor, to a real economic opportunity to improve the lives of the community.’
Currently, 70% of tickets for this years pantomime – which is scheduled to run from 23rd November until 31st December 2024 – have been sold. Grab yours here.
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