Shrewsbury panto breaks box office records

With extra performances of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs added to satisfy demand, the production ended yesterday after 68 performances, and total attendance for the pantomime has exceeded 40,000 people for the first time.

The pantomime is the seventh successful collaboration with Evolution Productions led by Telford-born Paul Hendy and his wife Emily Wood.

Hugely popular Dame and director Brad Fitt returned alongside BBC Radio Shropshire’s Eric Smith and a talented cast of performers, dancers and local children selected at open auditions in September.

Marketing manager Craig Reeves said: "We are thrilled that the pantomime continues to grow and attract bigger audiences year after year, and we are always overwhelmed to receive so many great comments about the show. It is fantastic to welcome audiences of all ages here to enjoy the same production together.

"We hear so many wonderful stories of families reuniting at Christmas to see the show, with some travelling from as far afield as the United States and Australia. We thank everyone who attended for their support."

Tickets for the 2018 pantomime, Mother Goose, are already on sale and selling fast. Mr Reeves said almost 15,000 tickets were sold in the first week alone.

Lezley Picton, Shropshire Council Cabinet member for leisure and culture, added: "Theatre Severn continues to grow and has become a flagship for entertainment in Shrewsbury.

"Since the inaugural pantomime season in 2009, its popularity among people of all ages and walks of life has increased year on year, continually breaking records. I’m thrilled that Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs has followed suit with attendance exceeding 40,000 for the first time.

"It’s a fantastic achievement and I’d like to thank those who attended and the staff who work so hard to provide amazing entertainment."

Tickets for Mother Goose are available from the Box Office at Theatre Severn or online at www.theatresevern.co.uk