Easter pantomime heading to York Barbican (From York Press)

Easter pantomime heading to York Barbican

10:03am Tuesday 7th February 2012 in Theatre By Charles Hutchinson

YORK Barbican is extending the pantomime season to Easter by presenting The Wizard Of Oz in April.

The “spectacular all-new professional Easter pantomime version of the classic story” will star Dani Harmer, who is best known for appearing in the title role in the television series The Story Of Tracy Beaker and Tracy Beaker Returns and for hosting her own show, Dani’s House.

She will play Kansas farm girl Dorothy in the Enchanted Entertainment production of the magical adventure, appearing alongside comedy turn Bobby Davro as the Scarecrow, CBeebies’ Sarah-Jane Honeywell as Glinda and EastEnders’ soap star Aaron Sidwell (alias Steven Beale) as the Wicked Witch of the West’s henchman.

Producer Guy Pascall said: “We’re really looking forward to coming to York during the Easter holidays with this fantastic show.

“It’s got a great cast of TV stars, a full supporting cast, dancers and an amazing live band.

“We know how popular our Christmas pantomimes are across the UK and we’re now hoping to give audiences another quality family event during the year.”

Enchanted Entertainment promises a spectacular family production, bringing together a “top cast, fantastic dance routines, plenty of laughter and popular songs to please all ages”.

Director Rob Forknall said: “It’s going to be great fun for all the family both young and old alike.

“Everyone remembers such great characters as the Cowardly Lion and the Tin Man who needs a heart. This show will take the original book written by L. Frank Baum and give it a new twist, as only Enchanted Entertainment can!”

Performances will start at 3pm and 7pm on April 10 and 2pm and 6pm on April 11. Tickets, including family bundles of four seats, are available on 0844 854 2757 or in person from the Barbican box office.