Two Corrie stars will lead the cast when Parr Hall’s much-loved family panto returns this festive season.
Warrington’s own Steven Arnold will be joined by Helen Flanagan when they swap the cobbles for the most magical pantomime of them all – Aladdin.
Former Sir Thomas Boteler student Steven will be playing Aladdin’s lazy but loveable brother Wishee Washee while Helen will tread the boards as our hero’s guide, the Spirit of the Ring.
Steven said: “I cannot wait to return to the Parr Hall for a whole host of Christmas fun.
“I know that the communities in Warrington love to have a laugh and we will be bringing that to them by the bucketload when Aladdin visits at Christmas. I can’t wait to share this very special time with you and your family!”
The historic Palmyra Square venue – run by the arts charity Culture Warrington – has once again joined forces with Tony Peers Ltd to host the winter spectacular from 30 December to 10 January.
Audiences are invited to take a magic carpet ride to Warrington and be carried off to pantoland where they will meet young street urchin Aladdin who lives with his larger-than-life mum Dame Betty Bubbles in their family laundry.
But Aladdin’s life changes forever after he meets a shadowy figure who promises him riches beyond his wildest dreams – if he retrieves a very special lamp…
Also heading up the cast and returning for a fifth year due to popular demand is Parr Hall favourite Daniel Dean.
Only this time, the magician and entertainer is setting aside his usual comedic sidekick role for a spellbinding performance as the dastardly Abanazar.
Daniel said: “I can’t wait to return to Warrington Parr Hall. There’s something special about Warrington and the people that come to the panto here, they are so supportive and make us feel so welcome.
“We’re going to have a magical time at Christmas and I can’t to hear everyone, young and old, boo me as the baddie all season!”
Taking on the title role of Aladdin and making his Parr Hall debut is music star Robby Khela. Robby began his career in the music industry with Telstar Records before making his transition into acting.
During his time behind the mic, he supported a whole host of pop icons such as Girls Aloud, Craig David, Blue and Lemar.
A former Culture Warrington board member has even joined the cast – 20-year panto veteran Anthony Proctor will bring a little verve, humour and gravitas to his dual role as Sgt Pepper the Policeman and the Genie of the Lamp.
Freya Freda, founder of Wirral School of Acting, and actor and comedian Rob Stuart-Hudson complete the main cast as Princess Jasmine and Dame Betty Bubbles respectively.
Steven Arnold played Ashley Peacock in Coronation Street for around 15 years – and was a central part of the soap’s dramatic 50th anniversary episode.
He’s also had roles in the likes of Children’s Ward, The Bill and Medics. More recently he has made a name for himself as a stage veteran having appeared in various pantos as well as in the recent UK tour of Bouncers by John Godber.
Helen Flanagan has been gracing our screens since 2000, playing the iconic character of Rosie Webster on Coronation Street.
Her many other roles and appearances include Holby City and I’m A Celebrity! In addition to her successful TV and modelling career, Helen has also starred in multiple pantos with recent appearances in Mother Goose and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Helen said: “My wishes have come true this pantomime season, and I cannot wait to jump on my magic carpet to Warrington, where I’ll be appearing as the Spirit of the Ring in Aladdin. I can’t wait to see everyone having such a brilliant time at the show!”
Daniel Dean is a member of the Magic Circle and performed in front of royalty as a former British Magical Champion of Illusion.
He even helps organise the prestigious Royal Variety Performance as a member of the executive committee for The Royal Variety Charity.
Can Aladdin save the day and win the heart of the fair Princess Jasmine? Find out at Parr Hall from 30 December to 10 January.
Tickets are on sale now from £9. Call Box Office on 01925 552345 or visit parrhall.culturewarrington.org/whats-on/aladdin
