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Ipswich Regent Theatre seeks local star for Cinderella panto role

The Ipswich Regent Theatre is calling for the public to audition for the lead role of Cinderella in its Christmas pantomime, with open auditions taking place on Sunday, 28 September.

Could you be the next Cinderella?
Could you be the next Cinderella?
(Ipswich Borough Council)

Why it matters: This is a chance for local performers to land the starring role at East Anglia's biggest theatre, with the production running throughout the festive period.

The details: Anyone over 18 can attend the open auditions at the Corn Exchange from 11:00 on Sunday, 28 September.

  • No pre-registration is required – simply turn up on the day.

  • Auditionees should bring their chosen music on a mobile device to accompany their performance.

  • Participants will audition in front of the panto's creative team, performing one song of their choice as well as performing script from the production.

  • Successful candidates must be available for rehearsal dates at the end of November and all performances from Friday, 12 December to Wednesday, 31 December.

What they're saying: Councillor Jane Riley, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, said: "We're searching for a local star to step into the spotlight as Cinderella this Christmas. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play an iconic role on the biggest stage in East Anglia."

She added: "If you know someone perfect for the role who has the confidence to perform at the largest theatre in East Anglia and wow our audiences, we'd love to see them audition."

The regent theatre in ipswich building
The Regent is currently undergoing renovation works(Sophie DebenhamIpswich.co.uk)

The bigger picture: The production is presented by Enchanted Entertainment and promises to bring "a spectacular show filled with sparkle, laughter and entertainment for audiences of all ages". This year's panto is described as set to be the biggest yet, with a full cast soon to be announced.

The theatre has recently undergone refurbishment, with Councillor Riley noting: "Fresh from our refurbishment, we can't wait to welcome audiences back for a magical festive season they'll remember for years to come."

For context: Tickets for Cinderella start from £17, with special performances including a British Sign Language interpreted performance on Sunday, 28 December, a relaxed performance on Monday, 29 December and an adult-only performance on Tuesday, 30 December. The most popular dates - 24, 26 and 31 December - are already selling fast.

The bottom line: Local performers have until Sunday, 28 September to seize their chance at starring in one of the region's biggest theatrical productions this Christmas, with no experience or pre-registration required.

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Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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