Norwich Theatre is excited to announce Karl Queensborough from Hamilton as the Prince in the panto this Christmas, opening at Norwich Theatre Royal on Sat 9 Dec 23 and running until Sun 7 Jan 24.
Karl Queensborough recently played Alexander Hamilton in the West End production of Hamilton: An American Musical at Victoria Palace Theatre. He has also starred in The Crown on Netflix and Girl from the North Country.
He said: “Honestly, I’m the biggest Christmas nerd going, I love it! And panto is one of those unique standout shows where it is literally created for everyone. I’m excited to get silly, interact with the audience and get into the Christmas spirit.”
Norwich Theatre has a special Hamilton offer to celebrate this panto cast announcement. Anyone who books Sleeping Beauty, The Fairy’s Tale (or has already booked) before 31 Oct 23 will be eligible for a priority booking period of Hamilton tickets when they go on sale next year. This will not interfere with the Corporate/Supporter/Friend priority booking. It will be hard to Say No to This.
Stephen Crocker, Norwich Theatre Chief Executive & Creative Director, said: “We want everyone to be in the room when this panto happens! We are so excited to be welcoming Karl to Norwich. Sleeping Beauty, The Fairy’s Tale, sees two of the biggest stars from the West End come together for a level of musical talent not usually seen in a pantomime. Throw in Norfolk favourites Joe Tracini and Richard Gauntlett, plus the legendary Beverley Callard, and I can promise this show will be packed full of everything you would expect from a Norwich Theatre pantomime!”
Millie O’Connell will play Sleeping Beauty. Millie was one of the original Queens in SIX – The Musical when it opened in Norwich in 2018 and went on to play Anne Boleyn in the West End production. She most recently appeared on stage in Norwich as young Cher (Babe) in The UK tour of The Cher Show.
She said: “I’m so excited to be at Norwich this year as your Sleeping Beauty! Looking forward to a Christmas full of magic alongside some wonderful people!”
Beverley Callard will take on the role of the Evil Fairy. 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, 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: ” 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. He 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 fourth 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.
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!”
There is still time to take advantage of our Panto Payments to spread the cost of your panto tickets. Panto Payments is completely free to use and has no interest added.
For more information or to book, click the link below or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000.
