Bradford Panto Legend Billy Pearce Returns To The Alhambra Theatre In Brand-New Pantomime Pinocchio

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 25 March for Pinocchio which runs from Saturday 7 December 2024 to Sunday 19 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 24 th 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 12 Dec 2pm and Sunday 12 January 5pm; two audio described performances on Thursday 2 January 2pm and 7.15pm; a captioned performance on Sunday 5 January 5pm; and two relaxed performances on Tuesday 7 January at 1pm and 6pm. The relaxed performance will welcome everyone who would like to see the panto in a less formal atmosphere.

Featuring stunning sets and costumes, fantastic special effects and laugh-out-loud comedy, the 2024 Alhambra Theatre panto is guaranteed to be a spectacle! It’s never too early to book your tickets, whistle on down to the website to secure the best seats from 18 March.

Further casting for Pinocchio will be announced later in 2024.

Pinocchio - Alhambra Theatre, Bradford

Saturday 7 December 2024 – Sunday 19 January 2025

Relaxed Performances - Tuesday 7 January 2025 at 1pm & 6pm

On sale to Bradford Theatres Friends Members, Group & School Bookers: Monday 18 March 2024 at 10am

On public sale: Monday 25 March 2024 at 10am

Tickets: from £18.75 (inclusive of booking fees)

Call the Box Office on 01274 432000 or visit bradford-theatres.co.uk