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Cinderella set to christen newly renovated Regent Theatre in 2025

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Fresh from a record-breaking run of Jack and the Beanstalk, Ipswich Regent Theatre has announced Cinderella as its 2025 Christmas pantomime, which will be the first major show following the venue's £10+ million transformation.

Why it matters: After attracting over 20,000 theatregoers to its 2024 production, the Regent is aiming even higher with a magical reopening show that combines a beloved fairytale with the unveiling of its extensive renovations.

The big picture: Enchanted Entertainment returns to produce the show running from 12 to 31 December 2025. This marks their third consecutive year at the Regent, following three record-breaking seasons that have established the venue as a cornerstone of Ipswich's festive entertainment.

A photo of the Regent Theatre in Ipswich
Fresh from a record-breaking run of Jack and the Beanstalk, Ipswich Regent Theatre has announced Cinderella as its 2025 Christmas pantomimeOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

Special performances:

  • British Sign Language interpreted show (28 December)

  • Relaxed performance (29 December)

  • Adult-only showing (30 December)

What they're saying: "We're excited to announce Cinderella as our 2025 pantomime following a record-breaking year for Jack and the Beanstalk," says Councillor Jane Riley, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers. "This will be our debut show at the newly redeveloped Ipswich Regent Theatre, and we can't wait for audiences to see the theatre's transformation."

Behind the scenes: The theatre will close in May 2025 for a seven-month renovation, with improvements including better accessibility, extended bars, and restored Art Deco features throughout the Grade II listed building.

The bottom line: The timeless rags-to-riches story of Cinderella promises to be a fitting premiere for the renovated theatre, combining festive tradition with the venue's own transformation story.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Double victory for St Joseph's as young debaters shine

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St Joseph's College students demonstrated exceptional public speaking prowess, claiming victory in both intermediate and senior categories at a prestigious local debate competition.

Why it matters: The double win at the Ipswich East Rotary Club 'Youth Speaks' competition secures both teams places in the Norwich debating chamber finals next month, showcasing local talent on a regional stage.

The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevant
The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevantSt Joseph's College

The details:

  • The college hosted the competition on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.

  • The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human society.

  • The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevant.

What they're saying: "Working with these students and developing their oracy and public speaking skills through debating is such a joy!" said Dr Briege Rice, Stretch and Challenge Coordinator and History and Politics teacher at St Joseph's College.

"These skills are vital in every field, fostering confidence, clear communication and critical thinking. The standard of debating was very high, and we are very proud of this extraordinary achievement of our students," she added.

The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human society
The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human societySt Joseph's College

The bottom line: The competition, supported by the Rotary Club, continues to foster key communication skills amongst young people through its Youth Speaks initiative, with St Joseph's teams now preparing to showcase their talents in February's finals.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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