Everything's running smoothly for Friday's Panto!

With final rehearsals well under way in anticipation for the Friday night opening of Dick Whittington and his Wonderful Cat at beverley's Parkway Cinema, Just Beverley spoke to Director Linda Newport to gain some insight into the production. As Director, Linda's job entails devising the whole soundtrack to accompany the production, working alongside cast and crew on set every day to ensure everything is going to plan.

Linda said: "What makes Beverley's Parkway Theatre such a good performance space is the fact that it boasts a huge stage in both it's depth and width – allowing dancers and actors alike to perform on stage together. The theatre also incorporates a screen for digital imagery to be projected during the performance and a modern, plush interior to provide spectators with a luxuriously comfortable viewing experience."

Now on it's second year of hosting the pantomime, visitors can expect an even more spectacular show as this year's crew bring a more experienced and efficient production.

One of the challenges faced by a Director when devising a pantomime script is ensuring it appeals to a wide range of ages, Linda says that the productions vary, with content and humour devised according to audience. This means every performance is unique as comedian Duggie Brown, starring as Sarah the Cook, and fellow cast members, know exactly how to 'work' a crowd.

Dick Whittington and his Wonderful Cat is sure to include entertainment for all the family, with an impressive on-board ship, a loveable cat sidekick and an abundance of sing-along tunes in store!

This particular panto is an old classic, first performed in 1877; it's a throwback to a traditional storyline! But the well-loved gags have a modern twist and will have audiences captivated. With a particular focus on laughter and optimism, this panto sends the message that good will always win over evil. 

Linda Newport, Duggie Brown and his wife Jackie (as Queen Rat) have worked on performances together over the past 40 years – they are truly a terrific trio, so expect a real treat with some surprises along the way!

Production opens this Friday 15th at 6pm, running until the 1st January 2018 with performances every day except Christmas Day.

Buy tickets from Parkway Theatre Box office on TEL 01482 968090 or online at www.parkwaycinemas.co.uk