Dreams can come true

You may have heard a rumour that the Groundlings Theatre is closing down, but I can assure you that nothing is further from the truth.

During the summer, an army of carpenters, painters, cleaners and other volunteers have been hard at work transforming this old historic theatre, inside and out How wonderful it is to see the frontage of this Georgian building completely restored to its original glory.

This is a magical place, and as soon as you step through the doors ,you will encounter the magic of Christmas, all ready for a visit to our pantomime, which this year is the classic fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast.

It is wonderful to see the theatre full with happy families, all ready for a unique theatrical experience. Unlike most traditional venues with rows of seats, the Groundlings experience is more suited to families with small children, who can sit round family tables with their drinks and sweets.

The cast is made up of experienced professional actors with years of experience between them. Comedy is provided by Keith Myers who plays Dame Nancy

and her son Jacques played by

Adam Boyle, and there is plenty of opportunity for audience participation (oh yes there is!)

The role of the handsome prince, who falls victim to a curse and becomes the Beast is played by James Edge ,who is mesmerising and has the most amazing singing voice. One member of the audience said that the quality of the singing was top class, and they thought it was Hugh Jackman on stage. Newcomers to the stage are Phoebe Saunders in her debut role as Belle, and Megan Crawford as Belle’s nasty sister, Horribuna. Both these girls have their roots in Portsmouth. Phoebe was a pupil of Admiral Lord Nelson school, and also a student of the Groundlings Drama school, while Megan attended Priory School, showing that dreams can indeed become true!

They are supported by a team of talented child dancers ,whose parents must be so proud

Full credit must go to the wardrobe department, for the costumes and the technical team for the atmospheric lighting.

Get your tickets soon to avoid disappointment, from the box office at (023) 9273 7371, or online at groundlings.co.uk

This tale of love and redemption will bring a smile to all the family, with memorable characters, hilarious jokes, and sing-a-long musical numbers that will really get you in the Christmas spirit.

Rosalie Cuthbert Ambassador for the Groundlings theatre