Norwich Theatre is excited to announce Beverley Callard and the return of Joe Tracini and Richard Gauntlett in this year’s pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, opening at Norwich Theatre Royal Sat 9 Dec 23, running until Sun 7 Jan 24.
Beverley Callard will take on the role of the Evil Fairy in this year’s pantomime. Beverley is best known for pulling pints at the Rovers as Liz McDonald on Coronation Street. She has also appeared on Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps as Flo Henshaw, and as a campmate on ITV’s I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here. As a fitness queen, she kept the nation fit with her series of fitness DVDs.
Speaking about the role, Beverley said: “My husband Jon and I made a decision to make our home in Norfolk just over a year ago, and we absolutely LOVE it. We love the people, the scenery, the BIG skies. To be asked to be in the panto at Norwich Theatre Royal is just fantastic; it’s a wonderful theatre and so highly respected. I’m thrilled, excited and can’t wait.”
Local treasure YouTube star and The Times best selling author Joe Tracini will be bringing his unique madcap comedy style to The Fairy. Joe delighted audiences last year as Jack in last year’s pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. Joe received special recognition for changing perceptions and raising awareness of mental health at the 2022 Pantomime Awards for his role as Tommy Cat in Norwich Theatre’s Dick Whittington and his Cat.
Joe said: “This will be is my 20th year doing panto, and I’m so happy they’re letting me do it in Norwich again.
“The staff and the audiences at Norwich Theatre Royal are the best in the country, and I’m very lucky that they’re letting me be on the receiving end of that for the 4th year in a row.”
Norwich Theatre legend Richard Gauntlett will be returning for his 23rd year. Expect flamboyant dresses and elaborate wigs when Richard plays The Queen. He will treat audiences to his cheeky humour and fabulous dress sense and will have you guessing what’s next.
Delighted to be back to Norwich, Richard Gauntlett said: “Thrilled to be returning to my Christmas home from home for the 23rd year – and with promotion! At last, I shall be playing The Queen!”
Stephen Crocker, Norwich Theatre Chief Executive & Creative Director, said: “Pantomime is the perfect time for family, and I am thrilled to welcome back Joe Tracini and Richard Gauntlett back to the Norwich Theatre family. I know the pair will bring the laughs and the panto magic to Sleeping Beauty.
“Every panto needs a baddie, and we are delighted to welcome Beverley Callard as the Evil Fairy. Beverley now calls Norfolk home, and I hope to make this Norfolk Christmas one to remember!
“We know Norfolk loves a panto, and I can promise everyone that this show will be packed full of everything you would expect from a Norwich Theatre pantomime.”
Applications Open for Young Performers
Norwich Theatre is also on the lookout for budding young performers for the Junior Ensemble, who will be playing fairies in training at the Wish Factory in this year’s panto. Due to the number of performances, Norwich Theatre will be casting 12 children in total, with the number of performances being split between actors.
The application portal will open on Fri 14 Jul, and closes Sat 19 Aug, at 4pm. Young actors are encouraged to apply if they can sing, dance and act, are aged 9 – 11 years old and live within 30 minutes of travel time to Norwich Theatre.
Auditions for young actors will take place through this online platform. All applications submitted through this site will be viewed and considered by the Creative Team. Full details and application link is available here. Those who are successful will be invited to audition in person at Norwich Theatre on Fri 1 Sep.
This Christmas, get ready to see the other side of Sleeping Beauty: the Fairy’s tale. Join the Queen and the Fairy on their journey to save our Sleeping Beauty, with a prince in tow and despite the efforts of the Evil Fairy. Can dreams really come true? Who will save the day? You best get your beauty sleep. You won’t want to miss this one!
Expect the full pantomime tradition, lots of songs and dance numbers, and a show ram packed with laughs. You best get your beauty sleep. You won’t want to miss this one!
To book, head to the link below or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000