LOCAL radio DJ Robbie Dee is set for his 20th turn as Carlisle’s iconic pantomime dame as The Sands Centre prepares to play host to this year’s production of Aladdin.
A star cast has been assembled for the show which includes an X-Factor runner-up, an Apprentice star and a former ‘Any Dream Will Do’ contestant.
Marcus Collins plays the genie, Keith Jack stars as the eponymous Aladdin, Rhiannon Bacchus is Princess Jasmine and Amy Anzel appears as the Spirit of the Ring.
“I just love it,” said Robbie.
“I remember 20 years ago when I walked in for rehearsals and, like I’ve always done in Cumbria, I felt much at home.
“The Sands is very much like a second home for me at Christmas.”
This year Robbie is playing possibly the greatest pantomime dame of them all, Aladdin’s mum and washer woman, Widow Twankey.
When asked about how he gets into character Robbie, with his customary charm, said: “Obviously I’m dressed quite a lot as a woman at home on the weekends so that always helps – no, that’s not true!
“But when you get the wig on, the fake boobs, the makeup, the costume, it’s just great.
“It’s wonderful to be able to become a character and not yourself anymore and I find it much easier to be a character on a stage than myself – I’m much more nervous being myself.”
“Some years we’ve only had the script just three days before rehearsals – not that I ever stick to it much – I think I’ve only ever stuck to one over the years!
“It’s exhausting but I absolutely love it – panto is a uniquely British thing, and it appeals to everybody.”
This year, Robbie is being joined by theatre veteran Glyn Dilley, who is returning to tread the boards in Carlisle after a 40-year absence.
“I’m excited to be back in Carlisle as they haven’t let me back for 40 years” Dilley said.
“I’ve spent many years touring but never to Carlisle which is a great disappointment.
“I know the Lakes very well; I met my wife in Barrow-in-Furness and I’m from Morecombe so I’m a sort of local boy.”
When asked about why pantomime remains a firm family favourite, Dilley said: “What’s not to love about pantomime? You’ve got spectacle, romance, songs, comedy, slapstick and a great story. It’s the ideal form of entertainment.”
Aladdin takes places from Monday, December 12 until Saturday, December 31 with shows starting at various times.
Tickets for the show are available through The Sands Centre website or can be purchased by ringing the box office on 01228 633766.
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