Bradford is set to shine brighter this festive season as Courtney Act, the renowned drag superstar, joins the cast of the Alhambra Theatre’s pantomime, Pinocchio. The show will run from Saturday, 7th December 2024 to Sunday, 19th January 2025, marking a significant addition to the theatre’s holiday lineup.
Courtney Act, celebrated for her appearance in RuPaul’s Drag Race where she clinched a spot in the top three, will make her UK panto debut as the Blue Faerie. Alongside her, Bradford pantomime veteran Billy Pearce and Coronation Street actor Chris Gascoyne will feature in this much-anticipated production. With such a star-studded cast, the Alhambra Theatre promises a show filled with magic, laughter, and festive cheer.
Image source:https://www.billboard.com/culture/pride/courtney-act-dancing-with-the-stars-dance-britney-spears-toxic-8507196/
Courtney Act’s career has been a dynamic one, transitioning from the stages of Australian Idol to becoming an international drag sensation. Beyond her drag race fame, Courtney has made significant contributions to popular culture, including winning Celebrity Big Brother UK in 2018, where she raised awareness on issues like gender fluidity. Her unique blend of talent and advocacy ensures that her role as the Blue Faerie will be nothing short of spectacular.
The role of the Blue Faerie this Christmas in Bradford
Speaking about her upcoming performance, Courtney expressed her excitement, saying,
“I can’t wait to bring some Aussie sparkle and magic to the role of the Blue Faerie this Christmas in Bradford! Who better to help Pinocchio become a real boy than me! I’m thrilled to wave my wand in the cherished UK panto tradition for the first time ever!”
Adam Renton, General Manager of Bradford Theatres, echoed this excitement, stating,
“It’s fantastic news to have secured the international performer Courtney Act to appear in this year’s Alhambra Theatre pantomime. She’ll make an excellent contribution to the show, performing alongside the previously announced Billy Pearce and Chris Gascoyne. There is huge affection for the Alhambra Theatre’s festive production, and I’m sure that our audiences will thoroughly enjoy another outstanding panto in Bradford. We can’t wait to welcome Courtney to our city and to our venue, in its 110th anniversary year.”
Produced by Crossroads Pantomimes, the world’s largest pantomime producer and the creative force behind the 2023 production of Cinderella, Pinocchio at the Alhambra Theatre is set to be a visual and comedic feast. With stunning sets, costumes, and special effects, this production promises to uphold Bradford’s reputation for delivering exceptional festive entertainment.
Tickets for the show start at £18.75, inclusive of booking fees, and can be purchased through the Bradford Theatres box office or their website.
For those looking to enjoy a relaxed performance, special showings are scheduled for Tuesday, 7th January 2025, at 1 PM and 6 PM, catering to audiences who prefer a more subdued theatre experience.
As Bradford Theatres celebrates its 110th anniversary, this year’s pantomime is poised to be a memorable highlight of the festive season. With Courtney Act adding her unique flair to the production, Pinocchio at the Alhambra Theatre is a must-see event for theatre-goers in Bradford and beyond.
For further information, interviews, or images, you can contact Liz Hall or Emma Booth from the Bradford Theatres marketing team.
