The stars of Sleeping Beauty make surprise visit to staff and families at Alder Hey

The cast of the M&S Bank Arena’s panto Sleeping Beauty made an extra special visit yesterday to surprise the families staying at the free ‘home away from home’ accommodation provided by Ronald McDonald House Charities UK, close to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

This Christmas, Sleeping Beauty at The Auditorium at M&S Bank Arena stars reality TV legend Katie Price as Carabosse, comedy star Bippo as The Castle Clown, Britain’s Got Talent finalist Lucy Kay as The Fairy, Joseph Hewlitt as the Prince and Hope Thompson as Princess Beauty.

The cast headed to Alder Hey House after performing two packed out shows earlier that day to visit with the families whose children are being treated at the hospital over Christmas. They spent a couple of hours listening to stories, signing autographs, posing for pictures with families and staff, giving out gifts and making everyone feel special.

Ronald McDonald House Alder Hey is located next to the world famous Alder Hey Children’s Hospital. It offers a free, safe place to stay for families of seriously ill children receiving care and treatment at the hospital.

Katie Price said:

“It must be so hard for families to get into the Christmas spirit with their children in hospital so I’m really happy we were able to come and spend some time here to bring a bit of panto sparkle and hopefully put some smiles on faces. The staff are incredible here, they do everything they can to make everyone feel at home. I can see the wonderful impact that this place has on so many families during really difficult times.”

Ronald McDonald Alder Hey House Manager Lynne Wright said: 

“Christmas can be a particularly difficult time when you have a seriously ill child in hospital. That’s why we were thrilled to welcome the stars of Sleeping Beauty to the House, as they helped to bring a bit of Christmas magic to the families we’re supporting over the festive period. 

“Our families might not be able to get out to the theatre this Christmas, but this special visit allowed them to make some happy memories, even when they’re going through such difficult times. We can’t thank the cast enough for this kind gesture.”

Sleeping Beauty is currently performing at The Auditorium at M&S Bank Arena until 30^th December. For more information and to book tickets visit the M&S Bank Arena website here.