It may be the first week of summer – but preparations are already under way for Christmas at Eden Court.
While many are basking in the sunshine, work is underway indoors on Dick Whittington – this year’s family pantomime.
A familiar face will play a key part with actor Ross Allan returning to the Inverness stage for the fourth successive year.
He has previously played Gob in Sleeping Beauty, Wishee Washee in Aladdin and Smee in Peter Pan.
So far this year Mr Allan has been touring as Eric in the comedy Rapid Departure for Right Lines Productions but he cannot wait for the panto season.
He said: “I love spending the festive season in Inverness as it is like a second home to me now and the audiences in Inverness really love their panto.”
The pantomime will be directed by Steven Wren who has been involved at Eden Court for the past four years.
He will also be treading the boards himself, taking the pantomime dame role of Sarah the Cook.
He said “It’s five years since I played dame in panto so I’m keen to get into the costume and see what laughter and fun is to be had.
“The challenge of directing the show and playing dame is a new one for me.
“I have a great team around me who’ve worked with me since my directorial debut at Eden Court five years ago: Roy MacQueen, the choreographer who will assist in directing this one and Will Marshall, the musical director.
“We’ve developed a language between us and understand what we’re aiming for to make each show the best one we’ve ever done; to give the audience a real seasonal treat and to create lasting memories for kids coming to the theatre for the first time.”
Dick Whitting will run from Tuesday, December 6 until Sunday, January 8.
For tickets contact Eden Court.
