Now that the summer is fading fast, and the weather has turned much more autumnal, thoughts are turning towards the end of the year and, with just 99 days to go until Christmas, this year’s Eastbourne pantomime, Peter Pan, got off to a flying start on Wednesday.
The cast got together in the town to officially launch the show prior to its Christmas run at the Devonshire Park Theatre and the event saw an on-stage presentation with stand-up from local comedian Tucker; rousing renditions of When I Grow Up from Ashleigh Drew who plays Wendy and Now I’ve Seen You from Ewan Goddard who plays Peter Pan; and a hilarious version of Abba’s Mamma Mia by resident dame Martyn Knight.
Britain’s Got Talent runners up Twist and Pulse, playing Pirates Swash and Buckle, wowed the audience with their high-octane dance number, a demonstration of “Streetomedy” – combining street and comedy, a new genre of dance they pioneered.
Following a question and answer session with the cast, a meet and greet took place with a chance for guests to try on past costumes and obtain autographs. Finally the cast were whisked off for a rather soggy photo shoot at Treasure Island and then on to a slightly drier location, The Cavendish Hotel.
Eastbourne Theatres Artistic Director Chris Jordan promises this year’s panto will have all the trademark ingredients that guarantee an outstanding Eastbourne production – a live band, stunning costumes, and this year, audiences will be treated for the first time to seeing Peter Pan, Wendy and her brothers fly magically to Neverland.
“Hook” the best seats now as tickets for Peter Pan are selling fast, with some performances already sold out. Tickets are priced from £12.50 – £21 and can be booked by calling the Devonshire Park Theatre Box Office on 01323 412000 or online on www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk
