Roaring success for Nairn community Christmas Panto as theatre stalwart announces retirement from stage
A sold-out community centre was filled with laughter as pantomime took centre stage to raise cheers and money for charity.
Community theatre group CAST staged its production of Cinderella at Nairn Community and Arts Centre, raising £3000 for charity over three days.
With extra seats needing to be added ahead of the show, the Christmas panto ended with the announcement that co-founder and theatre stalwart Jean Morrison will be retiring from her acting duties.
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She said this had been a wonderful third act for the group.
“CAST has an amazing group of talented, lovely people and will go from strength to strength,” she said.
“I have been on stage and doing panto - which is my favourite - for well over 20 years.
“I love everything about it. I have written many scripts and produced and directed, made props, painted backdrops and raised funds. But there is nothing like the feeling of interaction with the audience. Sadly, this was my last performance on stage.
“I am 72 now, and I know it is time to stand aside and let the young ones shine. I will remain with the group, and be part of the team.”
The announcement came as a shock for the rest of the cast too, who were taken by surprise when she broke the news.
“I don't think they actually believe it,” said Jean.
“It will be hard to hold back, but I know it's time to call it a day.“
Across three performances - counting ticket sales, raffles and programmes - the show raised £7500 in total, which after payment to the community Centre and KBE sound and lighting and setting aside some savings for CAST’s next panto will see £3000 going to local charities.
The money will be split equally between Nairn Pipe Band, Nairn Community and Arts Centre, and Seaforth Club Nairn.
