Brian Fortuna makes his panto debut at Royal & Derngate!
The multi-talented dancer, choreographer and performer Brian Fortuna will make his pantomime debut this Christmas in Royal & Derngate’s spectacular pantomime, Aladdin, which runs from 9 December to 8 January.
Brian Fortuna as Aladdin
Brian, who will play the title role of Aladdin in Northampton, is best known for his astonishingly skilled performances on two series of Strictly Come Dancing. He has recently finished filming a romantic short film entitled Love + 1.
Brian was principal dancer in the West End production of Burn The Floor at the Shaftesbury Theatre earning him a What’s On Stage Award nomination as Best Newcomer. He was also lead choreographer and consulting producer on the groundbreaking new show Dancing on Wheels, pairing disabled and able-bodied contestants as they learnt the art of Ballroom and Latin DanceSport for BBC3. His television success has enabled him to dance as principal dancer in the two national US tours of Dancing With The Stars, as well as appearing in The Aviator with Leonardo Di Caprio.
Joining Brian on stage will be the veteran performer Jeffrey Holland in the role of Widow Twankey. Jeffrey is no stranger to pantomimes having appeared in them since 1968 making Aladdin his 40th season. As well as his numerous appearances on stage in the West End and throughout the UK, Jeffrey is well known for his television roles including the classic hit programmes Are You Being Served?, Hi de Hi, You Rang M’Lord and Oh Dr Beeching.
Brian Fortuna and Jeffrey Holland join comedian Bobby Davro and television icon Basil Brush who the theatre announced in the roles of Wishee Washee and Chief Inspector Basil a few weeks ago.
“This production is packed with all of the traditional Royal & Derngate pantomime ingredients including an abundance of comedy, stunning sets and beautiful costumes,” says Jonathan Kiley, Executive Producer of Aladdin. “The combination of our superb cast and the Royal & Derngate’s hallmark of outstanding value-for-money and unmissable entertainment for all ages make Aladdin the must-see pantomime in Northamptonshire this Christmas,” Jonathan added.
Aladdin runs from Friday 9 December 2011 to Sunday 8 January 2012. Tickets can be booked on 01604 624811 or online at www.royalandderngate.co.uk.
