STARS of Southend Theatre’s 2023 Christmas panto have had a fun-filled day at the seaside resort’s theme park to give residents a sneak peak at what is in store.

Comedy legend Joe Pasquale and TV barrister Rob Rinder MBE visited Adventure Island, in Western Esplanade, on Wednesday to show off their lavish costumes.

Echo: Star - Joe PasqualeStar - Joe Pasquale (Image: Adventure Island)

Echo: Star - Rob RinderStar - Rob Rinder (Image: Adventure Island)

Joining them as they ride on the Green Scream rollercoaster, the Smiles Per Gallon pirate ship, and the iconic American Whip were actors David Robbins, Michelle Francis, and Ciara Ford.

Carolyne Goodall, Leigh resident and mum, said: “I have already booked my tickets for the show.

“It is a tradition that my mum started when I was younger, so I am doing it for my kids.

“I am really looking forward to it, and you know it is going to be funny because of Joe Pasquale."

Echo: Hold on - the cast of Peter Pan on the Green ScreamHold on - the cast of Peter Pan on the Green Scream (Image: Adventure Island)

Running from Saturday, December 9 to Sunday, December 31 at the Cliffs Pavilion, in Station Road, Westcliff, the audience will be in stitches and amazement as they join Peter Pan and the well-loved characters this Christmas.

Mr Rinder will be playing Captain Hook, Mr Pasquale is starring as Hook’s boatswain Mr Smee, and dame extraordinaire David Robbins is Mrs Smee.

Also, Tinkerbell is being acted by Ms Ford, and Ms Francis is stepping into the role of Wendy Darling.

On the Southend Theatres website, it says: “With amazing special effects, stunning sets, beautiful costumes and barrel-loads of laughter, Peter Pan will take your whole family on a magical trip to Neverland like never before.”

Tuesday through to Saturday afternoon performances will start at 2.15pm, and the evening shows will begin at 7.15pm.

On Sundays, the first performance will commence at 1pm, with the second starting at 5pm.

In year’s past, Britian’s Got Talent 2009 winning dance group Diversity headlined the 2018-19 panto Aladdin, and fellow comedian Brian Conley in Cinderella in 2015-16.

Echo: Former panto stars - DiversityFormer panto stars - Diversity (Image: Adventure Island)

Daniel Cowan, Southend Labour leader and panto regular, said: “A trip to the Christmas pantos is always a tradition in my family, and I cannot wait to see what is in store this year.”

To find out more information about Peter Pan at the Cliffs Pavilion, visit: southendtheatres.org.uk.