REHEARSALS are today under way for one of Ipswich's most popular pantomimes.

REHEARSALS are today under way for one of Ipswich's most popular pantomimes.

This year's rock and roll pantomime at the New Wolsey is Cinderella, which runs from November 27 to January 31 2009.

Rehearsals for the popular production started on November 3 at the New Wolsey Studio with a cast of 10.

A theatre spokeswoman said: “In this version of the story by Peter Rowe, Baron Hardup is down on his uppers. It's not easy being Mayor of Ipswich, with Prince Charming due in town for a Royal visit and a staff of only two - his beautiful, feisty daughter, Cinderella and the loyal and loveable Buttons.

“But when his lonely hearts ad is answered by the mysterious Rubella De Zees, who brings along her two dangerous and deafening daughters - Hernia and Verucca, it seems his troubles have only just begun.

“Thanks goodness there's a Fairy Godmother on hand to help Cinderella make it to the ball.”

Songs include Three Steps to Heaven, It's Raining Men, In the Midnight Hour, Downtown, Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow? and Try a Little Tenderness.

The spokeswoman added: “All the traditional ingredients, with lashings of rock, pop and soul, served up by our multi talented company of actor musicians, to create the New Wolsey Theatre's feast of festive entertainment for all the family.”

The production team includes director Peter Rowe, associate director Femi Elufowoju, musical director Julian Littman and choreographer Maggie Rawlinson.

Cinderella opens on Thursday November 27 and runs to Saturday January 31 with evening performances at 7.30pm and matinees at 1.30pm or 2.30pm.

The late night special is on Thursday 18 December at 10.30pm. There are two BSL Signed Performances - Friday 12 December at 7.30pm and Friday 2 January at 2.30pm - and one Audio Described Performance on Wednesday 21 January at 7.30pm.

Tickets can be booked by calling the New Wolsey Box Office on 01473 295900.

Are you a fan of the New Wolsey rock and roll pantomime? What do you think? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk