Show seats snapped up

In a departure from the usual style of show, this year's seasonal production will be a "rock 'n' roll panto", featuring classic hit songs along with more traditional features of pantomime.

Performances will take place at the Eastgate Street venue from December 13 to January 12.

Show producer Derrick Gask, who is artistic programme manager for Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, said: "Our tickets went on sale for this year's panto in June and we have already sold and reserved 4,182, which is 18 per cent of the total capacity.

"At the same point last year we had sold and reserved 3,630 tickets, so we are delighted that Jack and the Beanstalk is proving so popular and that sales are already up by more than 550 on last year's Dick Whittington."

Derrick said the theatre had offered an "Early Bird" offer on panto ticket prices for the first time this year, with a £1 discount on every ticket bought before September 1.

He said: "Our special 'Early Bird' offer certainly seems to have encouraged our panto audiences to book up early which is fantastic news, especially as we're offering something a little different. It's the first year we have offered the 'Early Bird' discounts, so it's great to see that it is encouraging our loyal audiences to book in advance."

He said the rock 'n' roll panto brought together a strong storyline, lavish sets and costumes, slapstick humour, larger-than-life characters, audience participation, magic and spectacle.

"But what is truly special about the show, and what separates it from all others within the West Midlands, is the energy and excitement of classic rock and pop songs that are played live by a company of extremely talented actor musicians," he said.

The show will feature actor-musicians performing more than 20 songs to tell the story, including Hit the Road Jack, Get Offa My Cloud, Reach Out and Sweetest Feeling. Derrick said: "I'm really looking forward to introducing rock 'n' roll panto to the area. It is an amazing style of show, with so much energy and vitality that you really can't help but want to sing and dance in your seats."

Tickets, ranging from £6 to £15, can be booked from the theatre box office on 01785 254 653 or on-line at www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk