Over 300 free tickets to Norwich Theatre’s pantomime, Cinderella (6 Dec – 4 Jan), have been made available for children and young people who are in care and their dedicated foster families.
The donation of tickets has been made possible through a partnership with Norfolk County Council Fostering Service. It pulls on the roots of Cinderella’s story, a young girl who did not come from a happy home, to spotlight the importance of love, stability and safety that every child deserves. Together, the hope is to raise awareness of the urgent need for more foster families across Norfolk, while recognising and offering foster families a shared moment of joy and connection.
Norwich Theatre is committed to making the arts accessible and sharing the unique, uplifting joy of pantomime with the entire community. The value of the pantomime experience is highlighted by a survey conducted by Norwich Theatre, which reveals the profound impact of the festive tradition:
- 80% of people surveyed felt happier after watching a pantomime.
- 85% consider a trip to the panto an essential part of their Christmas celebrations.
- For half of all respondents, the pantomime is the absolute highlight of the festive season.
Stephen Crocker, Chief Executive and Creative Director of Norwich Theatre, said: “We know that panto makes people happy. And everyone, every family, every child deserves to experience the magic of theatre. I couldn’t be prouder to offer free tickets to children and young people in care, and to the wonderful foster families who dedicate their lives to them.
“This is a small token of thanks for the support they provide, and we hope Cinderella provides a moment of unforgettable silliness and fun this Christmas.”
Jeevan Braich, who is playing Dandini in Cinderella and is a care leaver himself, said: “Cinderella’s story has always meant something to me, she was always dreaming for something better. Moments of joy helped guide me through some difficult times, and I want young people in care to know that those moments can spark real hope. Their path can lead somewhere brighter, just like mine did.”
This donation marks the end of Norwich Theatre’s 10th Creative Matters season, The Shape of Family, which explored a vast spectrum of experiences that make up modern families today and will use a mixture of performances, film, workshops, and art to stimulate discussion and make connections through creativity.
Norfolk County Council hopes the event not only delights foster families but also inspires more people to consider becoming foster carers, offering children the stable, loving homes they deserve.
Cllr Penny Carpenter, cabinet member for Children’s Services at Norfolk County Council said: “Our team has been bowled over by this incredibly generous opportunity for children in care to experience the magic of pantomime. Christmas is about children, and all children deserve a childhood. Around 5 children and teenagers a week come into care in Norfolk and we are in urgent need of more foster families to work with us. If fostering is something you could offer, I urge you to get in touch with the county council.
With a stellar cast, a story full of heart and humour, and a purpose that shines brighter than any glass slipper, Cinderella at Norwich Theatre is the perfect festive treat.
Cinderella opens at Norwich Theatre Royal on 6 Dec 25, and runs over Christmas and New Year until 4 Jan 26
Cinderella has a range of accessible performances, including captioned, audio described, BSL interpreted, relaxed, sensory adapted, and an over-15s performance.
To book or to find out more, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office at 01603 630 000.
