Star-studded Christmas Panto announced at Grimsby Auditorium

-Credit: (Image: Peter Mascall)
-Credit: (Image: Peter Mascall)


This year's Christmas pantomime, Dick Whittington meets The Pirates from the Caribbean, has officially launched for the 2024 season at Grimsby Auditorium.

On Wednesday, September 11, the star-studded cast of the show gathered in the foyer dressed to the nines in their wacky and colourful costumes.

With the first performance scheduled for Saturday, December 7, the one-of-a-kind production is set to bring festive cheer to hundreds of families throughout December.

READ MORE:I visited this trendy little café in the heart of Louth and was very impressed - review

READ MORE:Ann Summers launches three advent calendars for 2024

Back by popular demand for his 30th Panto, the son of the infamous late magician Paul Daniels, Martin Daniels, plays Idle Jack. Speaking to Grimsby Live after demonstrating some magic tricks of his own, he shared many intriguing stories, including when his iconic dad bought Mother Shipton's Cave in Knaresborough.

After the Panto season concludes, Martin will be working on a cruise ship touring Iceland.

Martin Daniels -Credit:Peter Mascall
Martin Daniels -Credit:Peter Mascall

Sue Hodge, who plays Sherrie Trifle the Cook, is best known for her role as waitress Mimi La Bonk in the comedy series 'Allo 'Allo. She was more than happy to discuss this role and even treated us to a bit of Mimi's French.

Rosanne Priest, who is set to play Queen Rat in the upcoming Panto, is known for her roles in several horror films and, dressed in a wickedly fitting costume, she revealed that singing is her true passion.

Sue Hodge -Credit:Dave Moss Photography
Sue Hodge -Credit:Dave Moss Photography

Having worked on the QE2 and numerous UK touring musicals such as Mad about Musicals with Gareth Gates and Abba Mania's European Tour, Rosanne is brimming with personality and eagerly anticipating the start of the Panto.

Emmerdale and Coronation Street star, Gemma Oaten, also stars as Fairy Bow Bells, while renowned Panto performers Charlotte Maclachlan and Samuel Knight play Alice and Dick Whittington.

Rosanne Priest -Credit:Peter Mascall
Rosanne Priest -Credit:Peter Mascall

Grimsby Live also had the pleasure of spending some time with Chris Clarkson, a man seemingly born for Panto. Now embarking on his 22nd, he fully embodies his role as Lady Fitzwarren, even during the interview.

He provided a humorous insight into rehearsals, which he said last just over two weeks before the show hits the stage.

Chris Clarkson -Credit:Peter Mascall
Chris Clarkson -Credit:Peter Mascall

However, Panto isn't his only gig - he's appeared in Grimsby before in the Blood Brothers production, done some TV work with Emmerdale, and even guest presented the One Show.

The palpable chemistry among the cast was evident.

To book your tickets, visit the Grimsby Auditorium website here or call their Box Office on 0300 300 0035 or visit in person from Monday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm.