Formidable acting duo Steven Wren and Ross Allan will once again return to Inverness to prop up the extensive cast for this year’s festive pantomime performance of Beauty and the Beast.
The popular duo will be joined by Chris O’Mara, who is also returning after proving to be a huge hit with audiences as part of last year’s production of Jack and the Beanstalk, where took up the role of resident pantomime villain Fleshcreep.
Despite the return of some seasoned guests, new faces will also pop into Eden Court for the month-long feature.
Christie Gowans will take up the role as the title character Beauty, with Rodney Mathew venturing to the Highland capital to take on the role of her father.
Actress Victoria Compson-Bradford will also take on the role of The Enchantress.
Mr Wren also has the added task of directing the panto.
He said: “What’s surprised me over the years is the build-up of the audience. Something like 35,000 people see the show and some of them come back more than once.
“It’s always a wee thrill when someone stops me in the street or in the supermarket and tells me how much they’ve enjoyed the panto – not sure how they recognise me out of make-up, but I’ll leave that aside for now.
“The best thing about it for the audience is that they get a full story told in a funny and entertaining way that makes three-year-olds and 93-year-olds laugh and smile.
“For many people, it sets the mood for Christmas and I’m delighted that we can be a part of that.”
The pantomime will take up residency in the Highland arts centre from Friday December 6, with performances continuing right through until Sunday January 5.