Claire Sweeney has been unveiled as the new star of the 2021 panto at The Atkinson in Southport.
Cinderella, her wicked Stepmother, the jealous stepsisters, the loveable Buttons, a dreamy Prince Charming and Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother will all be making an appearance onstage from 10th December 2021 until the 2nd January 2022.
The Atkinson is delighted to announce that headlining this year’s show is TV presenter, actress and incredible singer, Claire Sweeney, who will be playing fan favourite, The Fairy Godmother.
‘The countdown to Christmas has officially begun and we are hugely excited to be working with LHK productions again after the overwhelming success of last years’ show. I couldn’t be happier to welcome Claire to The Atkinson stage, she is undoubtedly a natural at pantomime with her humour and stunning vocals. This year is going to be really special, we can’t wait to share some festive magic and wonderful memories with our audiences! ‘- Marie Kenny, Performing Arts Programme Manager
Originally from Liverpool, Claire has graced our TV screens for many years and is renowned for her fabulous theatre/musical productions nationwide such as ‘Chicago’ and ‘Guys & Dolls’, playing opposite Patrick Swayze. She has most recently been seen on stage starring in productions such as ‘Crazy For You’, ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ and ‘Hairspray’. Prior to this she toured with the sell-out show; ‘Sex in Suburbia’, which she also co-wrote. Claire also hosts popular radio shows on both Magic and BBC Radio Merseyside.
Claire Sweeney said, ‘ I started off at the Southport Youth Theatre when I was 14 and my day’s out every Sunday were to Southport to the Bold Hotel for a roast dinner,
so Southport holds a really special place in my heart. I won my first talent contest at this very theatre when I was 14, pretending to be 16, so it’s a very sentimental place for me so to be coming back to do pantomime is absolutely lovely ‘.
The pantomime will be produced by internationally renowned Theatre production company LHK Productions, who have for over 15 years’ experience creating outstanding shows and musical productions worldwide. Producer Lee Kelly said ‘ We are really looking forward to returning to the fabulous Atkinson Theatre, following the overwhelming success of our Christmas pantomime last year. You can expect a fun and heart-warming show with a modern twist, full of dancing, singing and some enchanting surprises – the perfect Christmas family show.’
Joining Claire Sweeney on stage at The Atkinson will be Michael Chapman (Liverpool’s favourite Dame), Lewis Pryor (Britain’s Got Talent 2016), Southport’s Tom Burroughs and Holli Jo Bradley (choreographer). The full cast list will be announced over the next few weeks!
The Atkinson not only offers a fabulous theatre but also houses a museum and art gallery, which the team have worked hard to safely open for the public. They have undertaken many industry safety accreditations meaning you can book with confidence to their shows/events. The Atkinson is operated by Sefton Council and is adhering to the council guidelines and COVID safety measures. They are also part of Visit England’s ‘We’re Good To Go’ campaign and have been awarded ‘See it Safely’ accreditation from the Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre, meaning they are in line with both government guidelines and national industry standards to ensure they are an approved venue at this uncertain time.
- Tickets for Cinderella are on sale now at www.theatkinson.co.uk
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