Cresset panto cast devastated as Peterborough moves into Tier 3

The Cresset panto will perform for the final time on Friday, after it was announced this morning that Peterborough will be placed under Tier 3 restrictions starting on Saturday.
Jack and the Beanstalk at The Cresset.Jack and the Beanstalk at The Cresset.
Jack and the Beanstalk at The Cresset.

Penny Hansen, head of commercial activities, described the move - which means theatres must close - as devastating, as the socially distanced production of Jack and the Beanstalk only opened last Saturday and was scheduled to run until December 24.

“We’re absolutely devastated that we will have to close our socially distanced pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk as Peterborough moves into Tier 3 restrictions,” she said.

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“The production team, cast, crew and venue staff have worked so exceptionally hard to ensure a completely safe, covid secure production for everyone, and our audiences have been extremely positive about the organisation and safety procedures in place to ensure everyone can enjoy the show.

“Everyone here is heartbroken, and we know our audiences who were hoping to see the show before Christmas will be too. We will have news on how they can stream a recording of the show to watch at home very shortly, and we hope that will allow people to still enjoy a bit of pantomime magic this Christmas.”

Read our panto review HERE

A Christmas Carol, currently being performed at The Key Theatre until Christmas Eve, will also be cut short.

Producer Becky Owen-Fisher said: “The team at Lamphouse are very disappointed to be ending our run of A Christmas Carol at the Key Theatre early, but we completely understand the need for Peterborough to move into tier 3.

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“The most important thing for us is keeping our families and friends safe in these tough times. Our show is still available to watch online (details at lamphouse theatre.co.uk) and we hope that it will bring some festive cheer into your houses this Christmas. Stay safe and we’ll see you next year!”

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