Northern Ireland’s biggest ever panto gets off to a flying start with charity gala night

Take the second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning…

One thousand invited guests from charities and community groups across Northern Ireland helped launch panto season at the Grand Opera House this evening, with the first performance of Peter Pan.

With well over 70,000 tickets already sold, Peter Pan is on course to be Northern Ireland’s most successful pantomime ever.  Starring the Grande Dame of panto May McFettridge, Coronation Street’s Claire King, Britain’s Got Talent impressionist Paul Burling and double Olivier Award-winner David Bedella the show runs for six weeks until 14 January 2018.

A much-loved festive tradition, the annual pantomime curtain raiser was attended by guests from charities and community groups including Mencap, Autism NI, the Markets Community Development Association, Belfast South Community Resource and the Grand Opera House nominated charity NI Hospice.

Jonathan Lamberton NI Hospice corporate engagement executive said:

“The Grand Opera House partnership with Northern Ireland Hospice has generated a lot of buzz and excitement amongst the Hospice staff, and we are delighted to have received these tickets for Peter Pan. The tickets were distributed to our patients and families who have been very excited about attending the show”.

Ian Wilson, Grand Opera House chief executive added:

“Everyone looks forward to the annual charity pantomime performance, and I’m delighted that the first show of this year’s panto season has been open to members, service users and families of over 30 Northern Ireland charity and community groups.  This year’s panto is on course to break box office records, but don’t worry if you haven’t bought your ticket yet – some seats are still available!”

Peter Pan, sponsored by Dale Farm, runs until Sunday 14 January, tickets are selling fast so hook your seats today at goh.co.uk.