We recently hosted our press launch for this year’s sparkling family pantomime – Aladdin.
All of our cast members were on hand to chat to the local media, including the Eastern Daily Press, Lowestoft Journal, Radio Suffolk, The Beach Radio and Suffolk Kids Blog.
Along with taking a number of promotional photographs, the cast – including former high-profile MP Ann Widdecombe and A1 boyband star Mark Read – then recorded the video trailer on our historic stage.
Here is the story of how the day progressed – including some exclusive behind the scenes photographs!
11am – Cast arrive and into costume
This was the first time that many of our cast members had met one another – and also the staff at the Marina.
After being directed backstage, they were then asked to change into their costumes – ready for the photo shoot.
Returning stars Terry Gleed (Wishee Washee) and Fenton Gray (Widow Twankey) soon re-familiarised themselves with the theatre.
“I am thrilled to be back – I had such a good time last year,” Fenton commented.
But for Mark Read, Mia Richards and Darren Clewlow-Smith – it was their first visit to Lowestoft.
Mia said: “I am so excited as it’s my first professional job while I have been training.
“What an amazing way to start with a pantomime at Christmas – the best time of the year.”
Aaron Spendelow – who is playing the Genie in this year’s production – has previously performed at the Marina in a show called The Little Big Club.
“It is a lovely venue and town,” he described to the others.
Meanwhile, members of the local media were arriving at the theatre – ready to document all the fun and games they were about to see.
“I love pantomime and hearing the children laughing – the special thing about pantomime is the audience,” described Ann Widdecombe.
12pm – Press start to arrive/cast pose for pictures and other press photographs
With our cast ready and in position (and after a few cups of coffee) our guests were invited up on stage to take photographs with this year’s performers.
We were also pleased to welcome Roger Harrod to the stage – and we thank Karpet Kingdom for their sponsorship of this year’s production.
Soon, plenty of colourful images were captured – and camera flashes brightly lit up our auditorium.
12:45 pm – Cast interviews with press
Members of the press were then invited to our First Floor Lounge to chat individually with the stars of this year’s show.
“I have had people come from all over the world to see me perform in pantomime, including from Norway, Spain and even Japan,” popstar Mark Read explained.
Mark is known to millions as a member of hit boyband A1 and for their trio of Number One singles Take on Me, Caught in the Middle and Same Old Brand New You.
Hoping to bring his experience to the table, resident funny man Terry Gleed was on hand to speak about this year’s show – his third pantomime in a row at the Marina!
“I live near Heathrow Airport and to come to somewhere like Lowestoft is just magical.
“As soon as I venture to panto land people recognise me.”
With radio interviews, recorded comments and plenty of notes taken, the press then departed to write up their stories and our cast and staff members could take a brief break for lunch.
This year will be the eighth pantomime appearance for Darren Clewlow-Smith – who will be playing the frightening Abanazar.
“He is the best villain and is so varied to play. I love to get booed,” he said.
2:15 – Video trailer filming – stage
Cast members were called one at a time for their individual segments. This was the time where the fun and games really began – with some one liners, slapstick gags and emotive acting all in the offing.
It also allowed our cast to watch one another –and to gain an insight into their performing styles.
3:30 – Our press launch came to an end – the next time all of our cast will be together again will be for rehearsals!
Aladdin runs at the Marina Theatre for 32 amazing performances full of eastern promise!
Tickets, which start from just £7, are on sale now online or at the box office on 01502 533 200.
Pictures: Mandy Mullender, Mick Howes & Joe Randlesome
