Halifax panto duo to return to bring festive magic to the stage in Aladdin
The Victoria Theatre has confirmed that Halifax’s favourite panto duo are set to return as the venue celebrates its 125th anniversary year.
Andrew Pollard and Matthew Allen will soar into town on a magic carpet ride for the production of Aladdin from December 11 to January 3.
After wowing audiences and critics alike last year, the much-loved duo are back by popular demand, bringing their unmistakable chemistry once again to the stage.
Highly acclaimed stage and screen actor Andrew’s three-decade career spans classical theatre, contemporary drama, television and film.
On his return, he said: “I started my professional panto career in 1995 at the Victoria Theatre, so it holds a special place in my heart and to be at home for Christmas after twenty years of playing up and down the country is a special treat.”
Matthew’s career in theatre, television and film has seen him appear on stage at the Royal Exchange Theatre and The Lowry, alongside national tours and BBC screen appearances.
He said: “The Victoria Theatre is such a magical place. I can't wait to get back.
“The theatre’s team and audience are so welcoming and just as silly as us on stage.
“Halifax becomes our home for Christmas.”
Robert Marsden, director of the panto, said: “It’s wonderful to be welcoming back Andrew Pollard as Dame and Matthew Allen as Comic for their second year together as a comedy partnership.
“They were firm favourites with the Halifax audiences last year in Beauty and the Beast, and I am very much forward to directing them this year in Aladdin.”
Tim Fagan, Victoria Theatre manager, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome back Andrew and Matthew for our 125th anniversary year.
“The Victoria Theatre has always been at the heart of Halifax’s festive celebrations, and after seeing the incredible bond they formed with our audiences last year, we knew we had to bring them back.
“This year’s Aladdin is the perfect way to celebrate our landmark anniversary – it’s going to be a magical, high-flying treat for everyone in Calderdale.”
Once again presented by the award-winning Imagine Theatre, Aladdin will be packed with side-splitting comedy, dazzling costumes and show-stopping musical numbers.