Panto proof of Bilton's talent

And out of sight once again, the cast of 40 has been hard at work preparing to unleash its latest original take on a classic tales – stand by for Cinderella Bibbiti Bobbiti Oops!

The popular drama group will be taking to the stage this weekend for a new twist on one of the best-loved of all pantomimes, written by two of the younger members of the group, 18-year-old Kirsty Bright and her 16-year-old brother Anthony. Anthony also stars in the show as Buttons while Kirsty has been assisting her dad Kevin Bright, who is director.

The cast features a mix of Bilton panto regulars and newcomers – with Ella Daniels playing Cinderella in her first appearance with the Pantomummers and comedy favourite Sam Patrick returning to the fold after three years at university to play the Stepmother.

So be prepared for plenty of audience interaction as the group serves up its usual mix of classic panto fun with a modern but family-friendly feel.

Kevin Bright said: “This is undoubtedly a special year for me, being able to direct a show written by my son and daughter but it also typifies what Bilton Pantomummers has always been about, giving people from the area a chance to discover the magic of being on stage.

“We’ve got our biggest cast for a few years and more than a quarter of them are appearing for the first time. Bilton’s certainly got talent, both on stage and in all those 
important backstage roles which help make our shows special.”

The performances take place at Crescent School, Bawnmore Road, Bilton CV22 7QH tomorrow (Friday) at 7.30pm; Saturday, February 27 at 3pm and at 7.30pm; and on Sunday, February 28 at 3pm.

Tickets are £5 adults and £3 children available from Bilton Post Office, Dudley Taylor Pharmacy in Bilton and Woodlands Post Office.