The New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich has announced its 2023-24 Rock 'n' Roll pantomime 'Dick Whittington and his Cat' has been shortlisted in two categories for The Pantomime Awards 2024.

Nub News reviewer Robert Carr captured the magic of the show in this report: https://hadleigh.nub.news/news/opinion/reviewer-robert-carr-revels-in-rock-n-roll-panto-216208

The nominations include Best Pantomime (under 500 seats) up against pantomimes from Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, Tron Theatre Glasgow, Exeter Northcott Theatre and Blackwood Miners' Institute.

And Dan De Cruz is nominated for Best Contribution to Music, alongside nominees from Queen's Theatre Hornchurch, Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, Assembly Hall Theatre Tunbridge Wells and Salisbury Playhouse.

The UK Pantomime Association will announce the winners on 18 June at G Live in Guildford, at a ceremony which will feature live performances and celebrity presenters.

The Pantomime Awards nominations come at a time when Director and Chief Executive/Artistic Director of the New Wolsey Theatre, Douglas Rintoul, is gearing up to cycle 100 miles in the Ride London-Essex 100 race on 26 May to raise money for the venue's inaugural 'Panto Pay It Forward' campaign.

Through the appeal, the theatre is aiming, with public support, to give 800 tickets, which is equivalent to two of their auditoriums over the course of the run, to this year's Sleeping Beauty to people who may otherwise not be able to experience the magic of pantomime.

Donations can be made in-person, by calling (01473 295900) or via the New Wolsey Theatre's website https://www.wolseytheatre.co.uk.

Douglas said: "We're thrilled to receive national acclaim for our pantomime, which spreads so much joy to audiences. As I gear up for my 100-mile challenge, knowing that supporters are behind the work we do will give me the boost I need."

To donate to Douglas Rintoul's Pedalling for Panto fundraiser, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/pedallingforpanto.