READING’S most recent pantomime could be named the best in the country, if the team behind it win the UK Pantomime Award.
Last Christmas, The Hexagon hosted Sleeping Beauty, starring CBeebies megastar Justin Fletcher and much-loved dame Paul Morse.
The show was one of the most popular ever staged at the theatre and received rave reviews.
The team at Imagine Theatre, who produced the show for Reading Arts, have to wait until next month to find out if it was the best in show.
They received eight nominations for their shows from across the country, including a best direction shortlisting for Sleeping Beauty’s director – and Imagine’s joint CEO – Steve Boden.
“We are always delighted to see our work and the genre of pantomime being recognised and are thrilled with our nominations this year,” he said.
“We would like to thank the UKPA for continuing to champion the art form and celebrate it with these awards.
“Whether we win or lose it’s always a great event and an opportunity to catch up with others in the industry, so we are very much looking forward to the award ceremony on June 18.
“Huge congratulations also to the other nominees and we look forward to seeing you there.”
This year, Imagine is working on more than 40 pantos across the country, including Cinderella, which will once again star Justin and Paul. It runs from December 7, through to January 5.
Imagine Theare and The Hexagon will once again hold auditions for its junior ensemble, who will join the Cinderella cast this Christmas.
They need 24 children for the shows, plus reserve members. The children will rotate between performances, but will need to attend rehearsals in the run-up to December.
The auditions is open for children aged nine and 16, and in school years four and 11 on the last day of performances.
They are open auditions, so any child, regardless of experience, can take part. They do not need to be part of a dance or drama school.
Those taking part will be taught a dance routine in the morning – no preparations are needed in advance.
Children who are shortlisted will be recalled after an hour-long lunchbreak. Those not chosen can go home.
Children should wear comfortable clothing, and tie long hair back, preferably in a bun. Shiny clothing should be avoided as children will wear identification stickers.
The auditions take place at The Hexagon on Sunday, June 23. Registration takes place from 9.30am in its foyer. Parents will need to wait in the theatre while the auditions take place.
Full details, and the consent form, are available on the whatsonreading.com website, searching for Cinderella.
