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Woking's Christmas pantomime promises to be fairest of them all

Hugo Berger

<p>Mayor of Woking Cllr Amanda Boote, centre, with the cast of the the New Victoria Theatre's Christmas pantomime, from left, Scott Maurice, Rob Rinder, Lesley Joseph, and Aaron James.</p>
<p>Mayor of Woking Cllr Amanda Boote, centre, with the cast of the the New Victoria Theatre's Christmas pantomime, from left, Scott Maurice, Rob Rinder, Lesley Joseph, and Aaron James.</p>
Lesley Joseph as Queen Dragonella.
Lesley Joseph as Queen Dragonella.

Leading the line-up are television favourite Lesley Joseph and broadcaster Rob Rinder, joined by a supporting cast of comedians and West End stars.

The Mayor of Woking, Cllr Amanda Boote, joined the press launch celebrations and was quick to praise the cast and production.

From left, Scott Maurice, Ann Parris MBE, Rob Rinder, Lesley Joseph, Aaron James, Gordon Parris MBE, Nick Ivil, and Patsy Walker.
From left, Scott Maurice, Ann Parris MBE, Rob Rinder, Lesley Joseph, Aaron James, Gordon Parris MBE, Nick Ivil, and Patsy Walker.

She said: “Snow White promises to be our best panto yet, and I am really looking forward to seeing it.

“I was very fortunate to meet the cast at the recent press launch, and they are very impressive and very funny - we are so lucky to have secured such great talent.

“Lesley Joseph even asked if she could wear my mayoral chain on opening night, so watch this space”

Rob Rinder as The Man in the Mirror.
Rob Rinder as The Man in the Mirror.

The launch took place at Newbridge Cottage, a 16th-century thatched property in Bisley that could have been plucked straight from a fairy tale.

Surrounded by woodland and complete with its own wishing well, it provided the perfect backdrop for photographs and interviews with the cast.

Claire Hopkins, managing director of Surplus to Supper.
Claire Hopkins, managing director of Surplus to Supper.

As ever, the theatre’s Christmas show will also carry a strong community focus.

For more than 20 years, the Children with Special Needs Foundation has purchased every seat in the auditorium for opening night, offering children and their families an unforgettable evening at the theatre.

Founders Gordon and Ann Parris MBE attended the launch to present a donation cheque, joined by charity supporters and beneficiaries.

Newbridge Cottage in Bisley.
Newbridge Cottage in Bisley.

Guests also enjoyed catering from Surplus to Supper, The Ambassadors Woking’s Charity Partner of the Year.

The food redistribution charity, which rescues surplus food destined for landfill, served up dishes that earned high praise from cast and visitors alike.

Tickets are already on sale at www.atgtickets.com/woking