Broadcast stars line up for NOT the BBC Panto
MENACING: Former BBC presenter Andy Comfort in rehearsals
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Current and former BBC colleagues will be reuniting on the big stage to continue the 25-year tradition of presenting their fundraising pantomime.
In a nod towards the departure of many former presenters and staff the show is being billed as NOT the BBC Panto – but it still promises a journey of adventure, laughter, and heartwarming moments, and it will still be raising money for BBC Children in Need.
The first panto was a performance of Cinderella 25 years ago. This year the NOT the BBC Panto cast will tell the story of Robinson Crusoe who, in Daniel Defoe’s novel, set sail from Hull in 1651 but was cast away on a remote Caribbean island and encountered cannibals, captives and mutineers before being rescued 28 years later.
The panto crew will only make it as far as Bridlington Spa Theatre for the opening night on Friday, January 17 at 7.30pm and will return to their home port for two shows at Hull City Hall at 2pm and 7pm on Saturday, January 18.
The production will see the return of former BBC Radio Humberside presenters Andy Comfort, Carl Wheatley, Judi Murden and Jonathan Parker, starring alongside Sally Fairfax, Mike White, Clare Crooks and BBC Look North’s Phillip Norton, Caroline Bilton and Phil Squire.
Carl, former Breakfast Presenter on BBC Radio Humberside, said: “It’s fabulous to be getting the old gang back together for another run of panto shows. Audiences loved the performances over twenty years, and even though many of us have moved on to other jobs – we can’t wait to bring Robinson Crusoe to life in Hull and Bridlington.”
Jonathan Parker, former Westenders Presenter and panto dame, said: “We can’t wait to get started. When I asked if anyone would be interested in a reunion everyone said yes straight away. We’ll have so much fun and raise some funds for BBC Children in Need while doing it. We’ve planned more than a few surprises for audiences – and can’t wait to hear the reaction.”
Tickets are on sale now and are all priced below £10. To book visit the venue websites:
Hull City Hall tickets: https://www.hulltheatres.co.uk/theatre-events/robinson-crusoe
Bridlington Spa tickets: www.bridspa.com