GALLERY: Wolverhampton panto stars ready for opening night

Rehearsals are in full swing for the cast of Dick Whittington who had their first full dress rehearsal ahead of the first performance today.

The cast, starring Ryan Thomas as Dick Whittington, alongside duo Su Pollard and Jeffery Holland, are gearing up to wow audiences with a performance filled with side-splitting comedy.

GALLERY: Highlights from the show

The pair, who starred together in television sitcoms Hi-De-Hi, Oh, Doctor Beeching! and You Rang M'Lord? reunited at the Grand to prepare for the performance.

Su will play the evil Queen Rat and Walsall-born Jeffrey will play Alderman Fitzwarren.

They will be joined by the Grand's much-loved panto Dame, Ian Adams – who will be back for the fourth year in a row - and comedian Aaron James.

Su said: "It is fantastic to be back in this beautiful theatre, I did my very first pantomime here so it just brings back fabulous memories. I love coming here, the people are great, it is a great tradition and it is great to be back with Jeff of course.

"It is a great pantomime – it is one of my favourites. Now I have morphed into the baddie, the first time I did it I was the goodie, I played Dick and I was the hero – now I have done full circle."

This will be the first time in more than 10 years since Dick Whittington has been performed at the Wolverhampton theatre.

Scott Bird, press and PR manager at the Grand Theatre, said: "This year’s pantomime is shaping up to be a spectacular production, one that celebrates the theatre’s 125th anniversary in glorious fashion.

"This year’s set is more glittery than ever, as are the sparkling costumes and dazzling choreography.

"Together with a cast of pantomime stalwarts and exciting new faces, this is a production that we’re all very excited about!"

Dick Whittington runs from today to January 12, 2020.

For tickets, visit the theatre in person, call 01902 429212 or visit www.grandtheatre.co.uk.