Discover a Sleeping Beauty in …Catford

Welcome to Lewishtonia, where once upon a time, a princess is born. Not invited to the celebration party, wicked fairy Carabosse casts an evil spell which changes the Princess’s life forever – but can she take charge of her own destiny? 

As we recently discovered in our ‘Pick of the Pantos‘ Joy Productions has reunited their partnership with the Broadway Theatre, Catford to unleash another festive pantomime on the general public.

Here ATV Today Entertainment takes a look behind the scenes at Sleeping Beauty, the 2024 panto, ahead of its launch on December 4th. This new spell-binding production for all ages has once again been written and directed by acclaimed Panto LegendSusie McKenna.

This year’s modern remix, a gothic fairytale with a 21st century twist, transports audiences to the magical kingdoms of Lewishtonia and Westminsteria. Once warring, both have now reached an uneasy peace. Our story follows Tahlia, the warrior princess of Lewishtonia as she turns 18, discovers her true identity, faces the curse the wicked Carabosse placed on her as an infant and confronts her true destiny. Along the way she meets raucous slapstick characters.

Practice makes perfect: Roshani Abbey plays Princess Tahlia (centre) in a rehearsal moment for Sleeping Beauty

Infused with McKenna’s signature knockabout comedy style, colourful characters and political wit, Sleeping Beauty promises to resonate deeply with today’s audiences, breathing new relevance into this well-known story. The production blends iconic tracks with dynamic original music to carry the audience on a journey through musical favourites, old and new, all the while championing a message of inclusivity and unity over division.

Cllr Edison Huynh, Lewisham Council Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities:

“We are excited to welcome our panto partners Joy Productions and Susie McKenna back to the Broadway for a second year. This new production of Sleeping Beauty is a fresh take on a classic tale that has been written especially for, and in celebration of, the local community. After the success of last year’s Jack and the Beanstalk we know it will come sprinkled with that extra dose of festive magic.

“Panto is such an important Christmas tradition in Lewisham. We love the way it brings residents, of all ages, together to share in the joy of live performance. We hope as many people as possible, from across the borough, will join us at the Broadway for what will be a fantastic, lively, high quality production.”

Backstage action, Natasha Lewis as Willowsnap (centre)

The community spirit of this production is reflected not just on stage, but also in its outreach.

The production is committed to offering at least 600 £1 tickets to local community groups. This year also sees the return of the Talent Pipeline program aimed at nurturing and advancing careers in the theatre for Global Majority and/or Working Class talent. As part of the scheme, candidates are mentored by West End professionals and receive paid work placements on this production, using pantomime as a foundational training ground.

Placements are given in departments such as lighting, sound, costume, music and production and will provide a much needed foot in the door in a climate in which theatre is becoming increasingly inaccessible as a career path.

Sleeping Beauty

Dates: 4th – 31st December 2024  |  Tickets: From £10 to £38.50  |  Booking Link: https://www.broadwaytheatre.org.uk/events/sleeping-beauty/

No snoozing the cast rehearsal of Sleeping Beauty recently captured for the company by photographer Mark Senior

Cast

Justin Brett: Dame Nanny Nora

Roshani Abbey: Princess Tahlia

Lisa Davina Phillip:Carabosse

Wayne Rollins: Denzil the Dragon

Natasha Lewis: Willowsnap

Ben Fox: King Eric The Undecided

Durone Stokes: Prince Gabriel

Blake Jordan: Ensemble

Martin Harding:  Ensemble

Rose Lynn: Ensemble

Georgia-Mae Price: Ensemble

Left: Lisa Davina Phillip as Carabosse. Top Right: L-R – Ben Fox as King Eric The Undecided and Wayne Rollins as Denzel the Dragon. Bottom Right: Durone Stokes as Prince Gabriel