Theatre-goers have the chance to give genie-rously and sprinkle some magic on East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) during this year’s panto season in Hunstanton.
Post-show bucket collections are set to take place after every performance of the family favourite Aladdin, being performed at the town’s Princess Theatre.
The show runs from 6th December to 4th January, and it is the second year in a row staff and audiences at the historic venue have supported EACH, having raised £5,500 during last Christmas’ performances of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Another £1,000 was then raised during this year’s Great British Seaside Special Variety Show, and Marketing Manager Anna Hallard recently handed over a cheque to EACH Senior Community Fundraiser Natasha Butler.
Anna said: “Both our summer show and this year’s panto are the perfect portal to raise funds and awareness of EACH.
“We’re huge advocates of this amazing charity. It’s something we feel strongly about, and clearly, it’s a cause that resonates with our audiences.
“Whenever we say who we’re supporting, you can tell from the reaction of the crowd that they’re in wholehearted agreement.
“I remember at the end of every panto last year, when Dame Dotty stepped forward and said who we were raising funds for, there was a cheer of approval. It was such an endorsement for the incredible work EACH does.
“People are extremely generous, and it seems fitting to raise money for a charity supporting children and families at a thought-provoking time like Christmas.”
Natasha recently paid a visit and ended up on stage with Anna and a couple of cast members from Aladdin.
“It was such a pleasure to meet everyone,” she said.
“In addition to money raised during the summer, it’s wonderful they intend to collect for us during this year’s panto run.
“Every penny donated will help us continue our vital work, and we’re so grateful to the theatre, the cast and, of course, the amazing audiences, who will hopefully dig deep to help make a difference.”
Sam Littlewood is playing the title role of Aladdin, and he will be supported by Josh Rettie (Widow Twankey), Jessica Broadbent (Jafarazad), Freya Barton (Princess Jasmine), Amy Robinson (the Spirit of the Ring) and Lewis Southall (the Emperor).
