Reading Rep Theatre announces rep company for festive productions

The Reading Rep Theatre has announced the repertory company performing two festive productions this Christmas.

In a first for the venue Berkshire a new adaptation of the pantomime Potted Panto (27 November – 31 December 2023) and a new production of Mary Elliott Nelson’s adaptation of the classic 1946 movie It’s A Wonderful Life (30 November – 30 December 2023).

Executive Director, Nick Thompson said “You might be surprised to hear that this is the first rep company that Reading Rep has created in its 11 year history! It’s exciting to have such an incredible cast performing two classics. We really do have a production for everyone this Christmas. And we can finally feel truly deserving of our name!”

The repertory company will comprise of Mark Desebrock (Hedda Gabler – Reading Rep, Hamlet – Almeida West End), Eugene Evans (Peter Pan – Reading Rep, Romeo 7 Juliet – Lyric Theatre), Orla O’Sullivan (War of The Worlds: The Immersive Experience and We’ll Catch Stardust Yes We Will – The Vaults) and Charlotte Warner (A Christmas Carol, A Midsummer Night’s Dream– Reading Rep).

Founding Artistic Director Paul Stacey said: “Pantomime is a brilliant tradition in the UK, but sadly it’s often not seen as great art. This panto, which covers almost every British panto, is a brilliant summation of everything that makes this tradition so special; from dance to music hall, slapstick to singing, drama to comedy and everything in between. It’s not just a summary of panto, but a summary of everything that makes British theatre so special…

“It’s A Wonderful Life is one of my favourite films of all time. It tells the story of how helping other people will help you. There is no better time to tell this tale of community, perseverance and hope. This production extends Reading Rep’s tradition of sellout successes at Christmas.”

For more information and tickets, visit www.readingrep.com