The magic of pantomime came to life in the autumnal sunshine yesterday as the stars of this year’s highly anticipated pantomime, Cinderella, hosted a special press and family event at Beck Evans Farm in Sidcup.
Cast members Abbie Budden (Cinderella) and Ben Goffe (Buttons) swapped their glass slippers and courtly boots for wellies, spending the morning hunting through the pumpkin patch for the ultimate pumpkin to craft Cinderella’s iconic carriage. Captured by Bambi Photography, the cast took part in a playful photoshoot featuring pumpkin-laden wheelbarrows, seasonal tricks, and fairground fun, including rides on the bumper cars, the roundabout, and a trip through the House of Fun.
Following the initial cast photo call, local parenting influencers and their families joined the festivities. Guests were welcomed with warm hot chocolates and delicious cookies before receiving bespoke pantomime goodie bags presented directly by Cinderella and Buttons. Packed with panto treats, including balloons, flags, bubbles, sweets, and Halloween stickers, the gifts set the stage for an unforgettable family morning.
Families then headed out into the pumpkin patch alongside the cast, capturing moments and content for social media. Cinderella and Buttons posed for photos, helped children pick out their perfect pumpkins, and joined in on the fairground attractions.
The event served as a festive curtain-raiser to promote The Orchard Theatre’s grand reopening on December 12th, which marks the return of live theatre to the beloved Dartford venue following its temporary closure.
We extend our immense gratitude to Beck Evans Farm for hosting us so warmly, and to Bambi Photography for capturing such wonderful images. We cannot wait to welcome local families back through our doors when The Orchard Theatre reopens on December 12th!
