Panto up for national awards brace – oh yes it is!

Derby LIVE is celebrating after its record-breaking Christmas pantomime was shortlisted for two national awards.

The 2024 panto, Cinderella, was the city’s highest grossing panto ever, as well as the best-attended panto in Derby Arena’s history.

Now, the production, jointly created by Derby LIVE and Little Wolf Entertainment, has been nominated in two categories at The UK Pantomime Association’s Pantomime Awards.

The classic fairytale starred Morgan Brind and Roddy Peters as the Ugly Sisters, alongside Mina Anwar as the Fairy Godmother.

The cast was completed by Kristian Cunningham as Buttons, Nicola Martinus-Smith as Dandini, Lucy Munden as Cinderella, Marisa Harris as the Stepmother and Charles Ruhrmund as Prince Charming.

The Pantomime Awards see hundreds of productions judged each year with all of them hoping to win awards in 22 different categories.

Cinderella is shortlisted for the Carmen Silvera Award for Best Magical Being – Mina Anwar (Fairy Godmother) and  Best sisters – Morgan Brind and Roddy Peters.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council and cabinet member for city centre, regeneration, culture and tourism, said: “The brilliant Derby LIVE team and Little Wolf Entertainment really excelled last year with the record-breaking panto Cinderella.

“Our annual pantomime is the highlight of our festive season, and it’s wonderful to see it celebrated nationally with these nominations.

“It’s a fantastic achievement, and a well-deserved tribute to everyone’s hard work.”

In a joint statement, Morgan Brind and Alan Bowles, from Derby-based Little Wolf Entertainment, said: “We’re so delighted to be nominated for these awards.

“We had such a wonderful time bringing Cinderella to so many people and it’s rewarding to see the team’s efforts recognised nationally.”

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 13 April at Woking’s New Victoria Theatre.

Tickets are already on sale for this year’s panto, Dick Whittington, which will take place at Derby Arena. To find out more visit http://www.derbylive.co.uk.