IPSWICH'S Regent theatre attracted 23,000 people to its Christmas pantomime - thousands less than last year - it was announced today.

IPSWICH'S Regent theatre attracted 23,000 people to its Christmas pantomime - thousands less than last year - it was announced today.

Though the figure was down by 8,000 on the previous year the show still made money for the venue, said theatre manager David Mansfield.

Aladdin, which included Basil Brush and ex-Coronation Street star Debra Stevenson, ran for 39 performances.

Mr Mansfield added: “Last year we sold 31,000 tickets. The publicity surrounding Letitia Dean and Strictly Come Dancing was phenomenal.

“This year we sold 23,000 over a three and a half week run and considering the economic climate sales were very good.”

Mr Mansfield said contractual arrangements meant the theatre, which is currently subsidised by Ipswich Borough Council, could not release profit figures.

He added: “The recession had a considerable impact but there were other factors as well which affected ticket sales such as the public profile of the cast.

“Next year we will have a similar pantomime with a celebrity cast but with a shorter run.”

Mr Mansfield said audience feedback on the show had been positive but said audience figures during the week before Christmas had been disappointing.

In a separate development Mr Mansfield said sales for shows this year are encouraging.

He added: “Ticket sales overall are strong with some shows selling reassuringly well. We are also hoping to bring a West End show to the Regent in the autumn.”

What did you think of Aladdin? Do you enjoy shows at the Regent? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk