The Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs pantomime at Bolton Albert Halls was a huge hit, pulling in record crowds.
More than 20,000 people flocked to the theatre for the show, and ticket sales were up 20 per cent on the previous year’s Cinderella production.
Sales increased by 3,548, rising from 17,170 in 2017 to 20,718 in 2018.
Snow White’s headline stars were X Factor’s David Heath and Sam Callahan, Brookside and Benidorm’s Michael Starke plus Lynn Francis and Charlotte Dacia.
This is the second pantomime since the historic Albert Halls reopened in December 2017 after a multi-million pound refurbishment – an investment which is all part of Bolton’s plan to redevelop and rejuvenate the town’s cultural offer.
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Culture, Youth and Sport, Cllr John Byrne, said: “The Snow White and the Dwarfs pantomime was a fantastic production and the figures speak for themselves.
“It was incredibly successful and the success reflects the increasing popularity of the Albert Halls locally, and further afield.
“The panto also really complemented our Bolton Winter Festival attractions – the Albert Halls were also home for the first time to Santa’s Grotto.
“The theatre and our events all help to bring people into town and raise the profile of Bolton as a fun, family friendly place to visit.”
Last month, the council and Heathcote & Co also announced plans for a new restaurant opening in the old Dido suite canteen.
Cllr Byrne said: “The opening of a high quality restaurant in the halls will turn the halls into a 21st century entertainment venue.
“It complements everything we are looking to do through our town centre masterplan.
“We are also looking forward to some great shows this year, including Sir Ian McKellen who has chosen The Albert Halls as the venue to perform in on his 80th birthday.”
To keep up to date with what’s on, follow @AlbertHallsBtn on Twitter, @AlbertHallsBolton on Facebook, www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk.