PANTOMIME legend Billy Pearce is returning to Bradford’s Alhambra Theatre for Pinocchio this Christmas. 

The pantomime is one of the most treasured events of the festive season for many families.

For 2024, theatre lovers are invited to a brand-new pantomime production of Pinocchio, running from Saturday, December 7, to Sunday, January 19.

Shows will be packed full of the magical ingredients audiences have come to expect from their annual festive production, with Billy leading the cast as toymaker Geppetto.

Geppetto's prize creation Pinocchio will transform from the famous puppet to a real boy, whose nose grows every time he tells a lie.

The show is promised to feature stunning sets and costumes, fantastic special effects, and laugh-out-loud comedy.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Samantha Giles as the Wicked Stepmother, Billy Pearce as Buttons and John Whaite as Dandini in last year’s Alhambra panto, Cinderella. Samantha Giles as the Wicked Stepmother, Billy Pearce as Buttons and John Whaite as Dandini in last year’s Alhambra panto, Cinderella.

When and how to get tickets

Pinocchio tickets go on general sale from 10am on Monday, March 25.

Starting at £18.75 (inclusive of booking fees), people can buy tickets by calling the Box Office on 01274 432000 or visiting www.bradford-theatres.co.uk

Pinocchio is being produced by Crossroads Pantomimes, the world’s biggest pantomime producer and the team behind the 2023 production of Cinderella.

Chief Executive of Crossroads Pantomimes, Michael Harrison, said: “My new production of Pinocchio debuted in Newcastle last Christmas, receiving rave reviews."

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Billy Pearce, pictured as Buttons in CinderellaBilly Pearce, pictured as Buttons in Cinderella (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

Pinocchio marks Billy’s 24th season and follows a triumphant run as Buttons in last year’s pantomime, Cinderella.

Billy first topped the bill of the Alhambra Theatre’s annual festive production in 1993, winning acclaim from critics and audience members alike.

The panto star has since solidified his reputation as the King of Yorkshire comedy.

Further casting for Pinocchio will be announced later in 2024.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Billy with Gaynor Faye in Jack and the Beanstalk in 2009 Billy with Gaynor Faye in Jack and the Beanstalk in 2009 (Image: Newsquest)

'The best place in the world to perform'

Billy 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?”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Spectacular scenes of the panto at Bradford's Alhambra TheatreSpectacular scenes of the panto at Bradford's Alhambra Theatre (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

Talking about Billy's return for a 24th season 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.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Pantomime fun Pantomime fun

There will be two signed performances on Thursday, December 12, at 2pm and Sunday, January 12, at 5pm.

Two audio-described performances are taking place on Thursday, January 2, at 2pm and 7.15pm, while there will be a captioned performance on Sunday, January 5 at 5pm.

Two relaxed performances - where people can come see the panto in a less formal atmosphere - will take place on Tuesday, January 7, at 1pm and 6pm.