February pantomime comes to West End of Morecambe

A theatre group based in the West End of Morecambe say "it's never too late for panto!" as they prepare to perform a February pantomime.

The West End Players will present 'Aladdin' with performances from February 23 to 25 at 7pm, at their home the West End Playhouse on Yorkshire Street.

They have described the show as a "knockabout musical frolic".

"A real joy is getting some people onstage, first-timers, building their confidence, and seeing them push themselves beyond boundaries they didn't know they could," said Helen Logan, the show's director.

Not all of the cast are first timers, this is 11 year old Isla Marshall's third production with the group.

"I first came because I heard there was auditions for a play," said Isla.

"And I was not into acting at the time. I was dragged along. But I must say I had the best time of my life. I loved it. I enjoyed it. And now acting is my passion.

"What I've liked about Aladdin is meeting new people, and making new friends, also, just the laughs along the way basically. Enjoying yourself and being around people in your community its amazing."

Christian Ainscough (pictured below), who takes the part of Widow Twankey, said: "I used to do a lot of performing when I was younger, it fell by the wayside a bit. 

"I wanted to take it up for ages but it was finding an outlet that was tough. There were no opportunities near me.  What I've enjoyed about Aladdin is playing a dame. I was the Snow Queen last time, which was the baddie, so this has been nice being the more joyful, classic dame character." 

Nikki Morris, who did staging and costume, said: "I just love the inclusive and community style of the Players.

"I'm not comfortable being onstage so behind the scenes is where you'll find me. I've enjoyed getting creative again and watching the production process start to finish."

Fellow backstage creative Jan Robinson said: "I wanted to get back into amateur dramatics and this looked like fun. I'm enjoying working with all the different age groups and making things again."

Producer Matt Panesh said: "The Playhouse and Players have gone on from strength to strength. I have to thank Morecambe Town Council for supporting us and this production. 

"Our next shows are going to be a St George Mummers Play and a life sized Punch and Judy show for the Prom and West End Festival. Following that we have our big Shakespeare production, A Midsummer Night's Dream in association with the University and the British Shakespeare Association. If anyone would like to get involved, please get in touch. Our door is always open."

Tickets for Aladdin Morecambe are on sale now, priced £7 for adults and £2.50 for children.

They are available from Skiddle at West End Playhouse, or call 07858031303 to reserve seats.