On Thu 22 Dec, the cast of Norwich Theatre’s pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk will perform readings and sing Christmas songs and carols at St Peter Mancroft Church in Norwich.
Everyone is welcome to join the annual Pantomime Carol Service, which starts at 11am. The carol service is a traditional service with a pantomime twist. It will feature all the stars, including Rufus Hound, Joe Tracini, Amanda Henderson, Linda John-Pierre, Dayle Hudson and Sally Hodgkiss. The full ensemble and junior cast will also delight the congregation with a festive songs.
Pantomime is a uniquely British tradition and is as integral to some families as the Christmas tree and carols, with eight in ten people saying in a Norwich Theatre survey that a visit to the panto is a key part of the festive traditions.
This is an opportunity for the cast to take a break from the panto run and enjoy their own Christmas tradition with the community of Norwich and is a vital part of Norwich Theatre’s festive traditions.
Luke Cartledge, ensemble member and Dance Captain for the Junior Cast who has attended the annual Pantomime Carol Service for five years, said: “The pantomime carol service is a lovely part in the show’s run allowing all the cast, crew, theatre staff and the local community to get together. For me it is a fabulous part of Christmas.
“It’s great that the service is open to everyone so the Norwich Theatre panto can branch out into the community to spread joy. After all, that is what Christmas and pantomime is all about.”
Speaking about the Pantomime Carol Service, the Vicar at St Peter Mancroft, Revd Canon Edward Carter, said: “This is a great annual tradition which I love. It might seem strange to mix Christmas carols with panto banter, but it never fails to delight everyone who comes along. The Theatre is such an important part of Norwich’s life – celebrating this with a service at church at Christmas feels just right. It’s always so good to see members of the cast doing readings and songs. My favourite memory is walking down the aisle with a pantomime donkey.”
For more information about the Pantomime Carol Service please head to stpetermancroft.org.uk.