AN iconic Oldham performer is among the stars recruited for the first professional pantomime performed at the Grange Theatre for two decades.
A firm favourite at the Coliseum for many years, Jeffrey Longmore is heading back to an Oldham stage for a new production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
The Saddleworth-based actor plays Dame Dolly in the Anton Benson produced pantomime, opening on Friday, December 13 and running through until January 5, 2020.
There is also a guest appearance, via pre-recorded footage of astrologer, Russell Grant, as the Man in the Mirror.
Other cast members include Enola Dyer who plays Snow White. Enola appeared on Britain’s Got Talent four years ago as part of Disney singing group, Misstasia who eventually reached the semi-finals.
Playing opposite Snow White as Prince Charming is Ronan Parke, another former hopeful on the ITV talent show.
He became an overnight sensation when auditioning as a 12-year-old singer on the 2011 edition of the programme.
Ronan was the bookmakers’ favourite to win but eventually finished second behind fellow singer Jai McDowall.
Grange Theatre manager and education co-ordinator, Laura Purdey, said: “It is great to have Jeffrey on board for our first professional pantomime for 20 years.
“Not only did he star and direct productions at the Oldham Coliseum, he has appeared in Coronation Street and Emmerdale.
“We already do a students’ show at the Grange but we really wanted to do something for Christmas.
“We have a lot going for us here and we hope people will come out and support us by watching the show.”
It is certainly a busy time for Anton who is producing six other pantomimes around the UK including Aladdin at the Gracie Fields Theatre, Rochdale from December 21-31.
In the Grange’s production, Snow White lives in the land of Little Apple with her evil stepmother, Queen Morgana.
As the wicked Queen plots to become the fairest in the land, what will become of poor Snow White?
Luckily Prince Charming will be on hand to save the day with a little help from Snow White’s best friends Wally, Dame Dolly and the mischievous Fairy Trixie the Pixie!
Prepare yourselves for a laugh-a-minute, all-singing, all-dancing rollercoaster ride through panto land.
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