The star-studded cast of this year's Christmas panto is ready to embark on a magical trip to Neverland.
With rehearsals starting shortly, the cast of this year's show at the Ipswich Regent gathered for a launch at the town theatre on Monday.
Among the excited cast was leading lady, Eliza Walker, 21, from Rushmere St Andrew.
She beat 28 other hopefuls to the role of Wendy in open auditions at the town's largest theatre on September 25 for its production of Peter Pan.
It will be her first professional stage role following her graduation from Evolution Foundation College in Colchester.
"The news was announced to me over the radio and I was so shocked," said Miss Walker.
"I was competing with so many talented people and I just didn't know what to say.
"I'm so excited to get started. Every girl grows up watching Peter Pan so this is a dream come true.
"My family now think I'm famous!"
Speaking on the decision to cast a young performer from the Ipswich area, artistic director Guy Pascall said: "This is Ipswich's panto. It's important for the audience to feel it's their show.
"Eliza is so talented. She can act, sing and dance so she's a triple threat.
"We think she will go really far."
Miss Walker will be starring alongside Eastenders star Matt Lapinskas and West End veteran Darren Day.
Mr Lapinskas, 33, will be playing the role of Peter Pan, while Mr Day, 54, will be portraying the infamous Captain Hook.
"I'm absolutely buzzing," said Mr Lapinskas,
"It's my second time at the Regent but my first playing Peter Pan.
"I've been acting in theatre productions, soap operas, film and TV for some time now so I don't find it challenging switching between mediums.
"I just love acting and I love theatre. That's what it's all about."
Performances will start at the Regent on Friday, December 16 and will run until December 31 2022.
Mr Pascall concluded: "It's an absolutely fantastic venue and, in my opinion, Peter Pan is the most magical pantomime there is.
"We've got such a talented cast and it's wholesome family fun.
"So I encourage everyone to come down and enjoy the show."
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