The cast line up for 'Aladdin', this year's Panto at Northampton's Deco Theatre, is now complete - with Olney based entertainer and producer David Pibworth confirming his role as The Dame.

And David, 50, who runs the Milton Keynes Theatre of Comedy, says his inspiration this year will be the legendary comedian Sir Norman Wisdom, who died earlier this month.

“I knew Norman well, he was a wonderful man and a great entertainer, said David, who is well known locally as a member of the popular local band The Bolivian Sunshine Dogs, which plays gigs throughout Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. 

"Not that long ago he told me I ought to get back to performing, having spent much of my time over the last few years off stage rather than on it.

“So I’m sure if he’s looking down on me, he’ll be delighted that I’m finally taking his advice!" "Norman loved Panto, but then Norman and Panto were a perfect match. He was a wonderful man, a fantastic comedian, and someone who has been a big inspiration to me."

"I am thrilled to bits that the producers have offered me this role, and I really can't wait to get started with rehearsals next month,” he said. “It's a great script, a great cast, and I am really looking forward to working alongside Chesney Hawkes and Melissa Walton, who are both delightful people.

"I have known Kevin and Jill Roach, from Stage Right, for sometime, and after seeing what a fantastic job they did with the Deco Panto last year, I dropped a few hints that I would love to be part of their show this year, and I'm delighted they took the hint!”

Apart from Sir Norman Wisdom, David has also worked with Al Murray and Jo Pasquale, other comedians he greatly admires. And while he loves directing shows, he says revels in the opportunity to perform.

"I have played all kinds of roles in numerous stage plays, and everyone I work with tells me what fantastic fun they have doing Panto, so it's great I now have my opportunity," he said.

Stage Right's Kevin Roach said he was delighted David will be part of the show, and has no doubt he has unearthed a perfect Panto Dame.

"David is a great character, a very funny guy, and audiences will love him," said Kevin. "I am really thrilled with the cast we have put together for this year's Panto, and our audiences are going to have great fun with a group of people who want to give them a great night out this Christmas."

Tickets start from £9.50 with special group and family discounts available.  For more information, call the box office on 01604 935678 or visit www.decotickets.co.uk.