Panto season has finally arrived! This year’s panto, Aladdin, is set in Norwich on the Verge and is inspired by many of the well-loved traits of Norfolk.
Here are some Easter eggs (or Christmas snowballs) to look out for as you watch the show…if you would rather spot them yourself, then come back and read this after the show to see if you got them all!
Norwich market
One of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Norwich is, of course, the market, which has inspired one of the sets for the panto. However, as the market is so loved, it has influenced more than just the stage décor.
The talented costume designer Kirsteen Wythe and her team have incorporated Norwich into their designs this year. In particular, she has been inspired by the stripy huts. See if you can spot all the market stall holders.
Stately homes
From Holkham Hall to the Blickling Estate, Norfolk is blessed with many beautiful and grand stately homes. What a better place for the evil professor Bellatrix Bottomburgh to live with her niece Jazz, particularly with her grand ambitions. You will have to watch to find out which one makes it into the show.
Thetford Forest
There is something magical walking through the depths of the pines in the forest; you can really sense that an adventure could unfold. In our story, Thetford Forest is a place where Bellatrix travels to get to the Flint mines to find the lamp.
Grimes Graves
Did someone say panto-mine!? Well, in our Aladdin, the hunt for the lamp leads them to the prehistoric flint mines Grimes Graves in Thetford. With mines that old, who knows what they will find?
Market towns
If you live in one of the market towns across Norfolk, like North Walsham, Aylsham or Wymondham, you may recognise parts of the market square. The set takes inspiration from these amazing places.
Norfolk stars
Raised in Cromer, Owen Evans, best known as one-half of Norfolk’s Nimmo Twins, is playing the Widow Molly Piecrust in the panto this year. So expect him to bring his love for Norwich into his performance, along with a classic Norfolk accent!
Canaries Fan
For all you Canaries fans out there, the wonderful Delia Smith is voicing the Great Spirit of Norwich! The character plays an important part in the story, guiding Aladdin on his journey just like she did for Norwich City Football Club.
We hope you enjoy the show and enjoy celebrating Norfolk with our amazing cast!
Aladdin is on at Norwich Theatre Royal between 7 Dec – 5 Jan 25. Tickets are selling fast, so if you want a chance to see this genie-us show, visit nowichthetre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000.
Book now!
