Catford’s Broadway Theatre has revealed the team behind the highly anticipated pantomime Sleeping Beauty, written and directed by Susie McKenna. The show will run from December 4 to 31 and promises to be a family-friendly festive treat.
Susie McKenna expressed her excitement about celebrating Lewisham and its diverse audience, who are always ready for a good time. Her unique comedy style and colorful characters are sure to breathe new life into the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty.
The modern twist on the story takes audiences to the magical kingdoms of Lewishtonia and Westminsteria, which were once at war but have now found peace. The focus is on Tahlia, the warrior princess of Lewishtonia, who must face a curse on her 18th birthday and discover her true destiny.
The cast includes familiar faces from Broadway Theatre such as Wayne Rollins, Durone Stokes, and Ben Fox, along with new additions like Roshani Abbey, Justin Brett, Lisa Davina Phillip, and Natasha Lewis. Many of the cast members have ties to the area, adding a sense of community and belonging to the production.
The show will feature a mix of iconic songs and original music to take the audience on a musical journey filled with old favorites and new tunes. Cllr Edison Huynh of Lewisham council expressed his excitement about the partnership with Joy Productions and Susie McKenna, highlighting the importance of pantomime in bringing people together during the holiday season.
Durone Stokes, who was born in Lewisham hospital, shared his personal connection to Broadway Theatre, where he first performed as a child. He emphasized the impact of seeing a prince on stage during a childhood visit, which inspired his own acting journey.
Overall, Sleeping Beauty promises to be a lively and high-quality production that celebrates the spirit of Christmas and the joy of live performance. The blend of tradition and innovation, along with the local talent involved, ensures that audiences of all ages will have a magical experience at Catford’s Broadway Theatre this holiday season.
