Bubbles, beans and Brighton magic: Donatello serves up a slice of panto glamour
There’s no better way to kick off the festive season than with a little glitter, laughter and a touch of Brighton sparkle. The city’s favourite festive tradition, the Brighton Family Panto, is back and this year’s cast of Jack and the Beanstalk has been celebrating in true Brighton style with a glamorous get-together at Donatello in Brighton.
The much-loved Italian restaurant has been part of the panto’s story since day one, supporting the show with its signature warmth and hospitality. Producer and panto dame David Hill, who returns to the stage as the fabulous Dame Camilla Trott, said the relationship is one he holds close to his heart. “My much-missed friend, and founder of Donatello, Sue Addis, supported this show from the very beginning,” he said. “I’m so grateful her family has continued to champion us every year. It wouldn’t feel like Christmas without Donatello.”
For the Addis family, the partnership is just as meaningful. “We’ve been the exclusive restaurant partner from the start,” said Mikele Addis. “Mum was passionate about community events like this. She loved bringing people together, especially through food and theatre. Continuing that legacy is really special.”
As plates of pasta and prosecco flowed, the cast swapped rehearsal stories and teased about what’s to come. Expect a lively mix of magic beans, outrageous costumes and plenty of cheeky humour when Jack and the Beanstalk takes over the DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole from 23–30 December.
This year’s cast includes Eloise Beck as Princess Jill, Alfie Murray as Jack Trott, Sharon Starr as Mother Nature, Allan Jay as Silly Billy and Susan Woodbridge as the wicked Fleshcreep. Rising drag star Alfie Ordinary promises to steal scenes as “the campest cow on stage”.
With only 15 performances in total, tickets are already selling fast, so grab your sequins and book your spot now. Tickets on Eventbrite start from £16.96.
www.brightonfamilypanto.com
