Panto finale a tribute to writer

The final community pantomime to be staged in Newark will be dedicated to the late Mr Martin Day.

Mr Day, of Bingham, died in February from cancer. He was involved with the pantomime for many years, helping to write the scripts and design and make the sets.

He was a vital part of the panto team, with his wife, Mrs Sue Day, his son, Mr Justin Day, and Mr Steve Candy.

Mr Candy said Mr Day was a very difficult act to replace so they decided it was the right time to finish the community pantomimes.

He said it was fitting that this year’s performance should be dedicated to Mr Day’s hard work over the years.

Mr Candy and fellow actor Mr Dave Newton in 1995 decided to carry on the tradition of having a community pantomime after an outside company was brought in to stage a pantomime at the Palace Theatre.

They set up Sweet Apple Productions and put on their own pantomime at Newark College involving local talent.

The panto has been performed in many venues including Bowbridge, Lilley and Stone and Sconce schools.

For the past few years it has been at The Magnus Church of England School, which Mr Candy said was their favourite venue.

That is where the final pantomime, Jack And The Beanstalk, will be presented by What’s On 2 Day Production.

The script was written by Mr Martin Day, Mr Justin Day and Mr Candy two years ago while they were in France.

Mr Candy said the community pantos had involved hundreds of local people and many youngsters.

He said it was an excellent opportunity for them to learn the trade and some had become professionals in the entertainment industry.

This year’s production involves about 30 local people who have been rehearsing since September.

Said Mr Candy: “We hope that people come along, enjoy the show and give us a good send-off. “

The cast includes Sarah Hubery as Jack, Jess Crosby as Jill, Justin Day and Steve Candy as Baggit and Binnit and Dean Hyde as Snotgobbler.

The event always supports a local charity and this year it has chosen the Newark Patriotic Fund.

The pantomime, sponsored by Greenberry Lettings, will be on December 17 and 18 at 7pm with a 2pm matinee on the Saturday.

Tickets can be bought in advance from Chuckles in the Buttermarket, Newark, priced £7 for adults, concessions £5 and family tickets £20. They will also be available on the door.