Brookside legend Dean Sullivan to star in Southport panto this Christmas

Local acting legend Dean Sullivan has been announced as the star of this year’s Christmas pantomime at The Atkinson in Southport.

Best known for playing Jimmy Corkhill for over 17 years in the Channel 4 soap, Dean will take to the stage as Fleshcreep in the classic tale of Jack and the Beanstalk, which takes place from December 7th to the 31st at the award-winning arts centre.

He’ll be joined by an impressive cast of actors from around the country, including the town’s very own Lucy Brindle in the fantastically festive performance, which has been created by KD Theatre Productions.

Dean said:

“I’m excited to be heading back to panto land once again. Being from Merseyside makes this extra special for me as I grew up coming to Southport for days out, walking past this very building. It has been great to meet all of the other cast members and spend time getting to know them and it’s very clear that we’re going to have a fun few months getting ready for Christmas in Southport.

“Pantos give people the chance to truly enjoy themselves for a couple of hours, shout out, sing – whatever it is that makes you feel the festive spirit. We want people to watch us and have a really great time.”

The show tells the story of Jack who trades the family cow for a handful of magic beans, which later grow into a towering beanstalk, reaching high above the clouds. Jack sets out on an adventure to the land above the skies, promising to return with rich fortunes but not all goes to plan, and he meets some frightening characters along the way.

Adventures await and the show promises to have everything that audiences love about a panto, from singing along to songs, slapstick comedy, stunning set designs and plenty of sparkling costumes.

Marie Kenny, Programme Manager at The Atkinson, said:

“Everyone here loves the fact that panto season is upon us as it really is such a wonderful time of year at the theatre. Many months of work go into these productions, and we are always pleased when launch day arrives and we can tell everyone what they will be able to see at The Atkinson this Christmas.

“We want people of all ages to come to the show and have a brilliant time and having seen the cast together, we are certain that everyone is in for a fantastic show.”