TV’s Les is longing for panto opening night
The Hawth has enlisted four spirited stars to bring magic and laughter to a sparkling production of Aladdin.
Les Dennis, former Family Fortunes presenter, will don a ‘surprisingly comfortable’ polka dot dress in his role of Aladdin’s mother Widow Twankey.
But the professional entertainer is not shy about the eccentric attire.
“I’m thrilled to be playing her,” Les said. “Between myself and Wishee Washee, we do most of the comedy.”
Wishee Washee, Aladdin’s brother will be played by John Clegg - back by popular demand after three popular performances at the Hawth and he can’t wait to become the ‘lovable goof who never gets the girl’.
John said: “I love it. I always play the comedy role.
“By the end of rehearsals I’m always dying for an audience after doing gags to nobody for two weeks. I come alive when I get an audience.”
Les is equally excited to get started: ”I’m looking forward to opening night as that’s when you really find out whether your material works or not.
“The great thing about playing a comic role is that you get to interact with the audience. I love the immediate reaction you get, it’s electrifying.”
CBBC actress Helen Kurup will play Princess Jasmine.
She said:“My biggest fear with stage performing is getting in a laughing fit on stage because when I start I can’t stop!”
Luckily Helen can hold the hand of Noel Sullivan, former member of the pop band Hear’say, who will play Aladdin and take her on a magic carpet ride.
Noel said: “Apparently we are really going to fly on a carpet. I have no idea how it’s going to work but I’ve been told I will be safe.”
This is Noel’s first ever panto after spending two years performing in the Queen/Ben Elton hit musical We Will Rock You.
He said: “It’s been non-stop performing six days a week and travelling on the Sunday.
“I’m going to have a nice rest before we start rehearsals and then I’ll be ready to rub my lamp!”
Aladdin runs from December 7 to 30. Tickets from 01293 553636 or visit www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk.
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Monday 20 May 2013
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