A pantomime retelling of a classic fantasy story is on track to become a Christmas record-breaker at a historic Aberdeen venue.
Scottish actress Elaine.C.Smith was in town yesterday to promote the new production of classic fairy tale, Beauty and the Beast, at the city’s Bon Accord Centre.
The panto star was in character as Mrs Potty for the preview to the stage show – which will begin at His Majesty Theatre (HMT) on November 29.
And the show could be the seventh record-breaking panto in the Granite City in seven years, having attracted almost 38,000 bookings so far.
Last year, a production of Cinderella playing HMT broke the £1million marker before opening night.
Aberdeen Performing Arts (APA) chief executive, Jane Spiers, said: “We are very proud that every year more and more people come to see the HMT show and are delighted that one of the top panto teams in the country calls our theatre their home for the Christmas season.
“We’ve had six years of record panto ticket sales and with over 37,300 tickets already booked for this year it looks as if this run will continue.
A few of Aberdeen’s favourite panto players also form part of the cast.
Alan McHugh will also be starring in the show as Dame Kitty Brewster alongside Jordan Young as the mischievous Boabby Brewster.
Ms Spiers said: “I know Aberdeen audiences regard Elaine with affection and awe. She, Alan and Jordan are first class entertainers and an unstoppable panto force creating unforgettable magic on our stage.
“Like a lot of other people, I can’t wait for opening night and for the curtain to rise on one of the must-see Christmas treats in the North-east.”
The show will run from Saturday November 29 until Sunday January 4.
Tickets can be purchased by calling 01224 641 122, by visiting www.boxofficeaberdeen.com or from the Aberdeen Box Office.