FAMILIES can still enjoy all the fun of the panto this year with an innovative online performance.

Celebrities from across the industry will be heading to Rhyl Pavilion to film an online pantomime that will be broadcast UK-wide.

Stars include XFactor star Sam Bailey, ITV The Chase’s Mark Labbett And Anne Hegerty, Britain’s Got Talent Winners dog act Ashley and Sulley, I’m a Celeb winner and Atomic Kitten member Kerry Katona, Phil Mealey star of Early Doors and a host of stars from TV such as Benidorm, Eastenders, Hollyoaks and the Bill.

Once Upon A Pantomime is a family show by Anton Benson Productions Ltd.

Social distancing will be adhered to.

Anton Benson, producer and writer, said: “When it became apparent that all of our regular Christmas pantomime productions were definitely cancelled this year and we were determined to not let this ruin the UK public’s favourite Christmas tradition.

Rhyl Journal:

"I opened up my phone book and started calling some of the celebrities who have worked with us in the past. Everyone said yes - some even changed their schedule to be part of the project. A few stars we haven’t worked with before read about it and opted in.

“I was honoured and humbled by the response. We wanted to put together a family pantomime that families could watch together - from their living room.

“This show has all the traditional elements of a pantomime: interactive moments to shout out at your TV, stunning sets and fabulous costumes, slapstick, panto gags, songs, dance, adventure, romance and abundance of your favourite pantomime characters.

“I would like to thank Denbighshire Leisure Ltd and Rhyl Pavilion for hosting this exciting online pantomime, we couldn’t do this without their support.

“This is an incredible show and every time I look at the line up and I can’t quite believe it myself! Just when we were told it can’t happen, Denbighshire Leisure has made it happen. In true panto style, we were told ‘No you couldn’t, we say, oh yes we can!”

Jamie Groves, managing director for Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to host one of the UK’s only theatre produced online pantos. We were not going to let Covid ruin Christmas traditions. Denbighshire Leisure Ltd are very proud to be hosting this performance and having the show played nationally across the UK.

“We pride ourselves on the quality of our facilities and being chosen as the national provider of this pantomime illustrates the level that the Rhyl Pavilion team are working to and the quality of our theatre.”

Public performances start from December 19, with shows finishing on New Year’s Day. Tickets are £15 pay-per-view.

Visit www.antonbensonproductions.com

Schools can stream from December 14 to 18. Email info@antonbensonproductions.com for school packages and pricing.