Bradford panto legend Billy Pearce returns to the Alhambra Theatre this festive season

Pantomime will be making a magical return to the Alhambra Theatre this festive season as Bradford panto legend Billy Pearce returns for his 24th season, following a triumphant run as Buttons in last year’s pantomime Cinderella. Tickets go on general sale on Monday 25th March for Pinocchio which runs from Saturday 7th December 2024 to Sunday 19th January 2025.

Billy Pearce first topped the bill of the Alhambra Theatre’s annual festive production in 1993, winning acclaim from critics and audience members alike, and has since solidified his reputation as the King of Yorkshire comedy. Side-splittingly funny, Billy will bring his trademark mad-cap comedy and boundless energy to the stage and will have audiences laughing in the aisles just like he does every year.

The Alhambra Theatre will be presenting a brand-new title for 2024, Pinocchio, produced by the world’s biggest pantomime producer and the team behind the 2023 production of Cinderella, Crossroads Pantomimes. The production will be packed full of the magical ingredients Bradford audiences have come to expect from their annual festive production with Billy leading the cast as toymaker Geppetto, with his prize creation Pinocchio transforming from the famous puppet to a real boy, whose nose grows every time he tells a lie!

Chief Executive of Crossroads Pantomimes, Michael Harrison, said: “My new production of Pinocchio debuted in Newcastle last Christmas, receiving rave reviews. With a beautiful new set, the show brings together the classic story of Pinocchio with all the comedy, spectacle, and special effects you’d expect from a Crossroads’ pantomime. Of course, no Bradford panto would be complete without the inimitable Billy Pearce who will star as Geppetto in this magical production for all the family.”

Talking about his return for a 24th season, Billy Pearce said: “The Alhambra Theatre has to be the best place in the world to perform. Cinderella last year was an absolute joy! I’m so looking forward to Pinocchio which will no doubt be another fab panto with wonderful talented people entertaining the families of Yorkshire and beyond. What more could I wish for?”

Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres comments: “I’m very proud that the Alhambra Theatre, in its 110th anniversary year, will be presenting a brand-new pantomime title, Pinocchio. Our historic and much-loved venue draws visitors from all around the Bradford district, West Yorkshire and beyond. There is huge affection for the Alhambra Theatre’s festive production, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to share the panto magic with us and create some wonderful memories. With Billy at the helm once again, there’s no doubt that theatregoers of all ages will thoroughly enjoy another exceptional panto in Bradford this year.”

There is a performance for everybody this festive season: with two signed performances on Thursday 12th December 2pm and Sunday 12th January 5pm; two audio described performances on Thursday 2nd January 2pm and 7.15pm; a captioned performance on Sunday 5th January 5pm; and two relaxed performances on Tuesday 7th January at 1pm and 6pm. The relaxed performance will welcome everyone who would like to see the panto in a less formal atmosphere.

Call the Box Office on 01274 432000 or visit www.bradford-theatres.co.uk to get tickets when they go on sale on the 25th March.