Jim Parker: Manilow at the Princess - wouldn't that be magic!

It's an annual pilgrimage for the Parker clan, one of the highlights of the year, a large dollop of festive fun - the panto.

I did hear some rumblings from afar that the show was a tad too professional for the kids this year. I must admit I missed the 12 days of Christmas bog roll sketch but too professional? How can a show which costs a a fair few bob to see be too professional? They'd be asking for their money back if anything less. Oh, yes they would!

In fact, it turns out that Beauty and the Beast was best ever panto to be staged at the Princess. A spokesman said: "It was our most successful panto to date both in terms of what we took through the box office and and numbers though the door. It was a record breaker to end the year."

It looks as if 2023 went out with a bang generally for the Princess with the 'sold out' boards going up on some other brilliant shows. Two nights of comedian Sarah Millican and Fairytale of New York had all seats taken. And the West End smash hit musical SIX in itself obliterated all box office records at the seafront venue.

The electrifying musical concluded its run before Christmas with an unprecedented week of sold-out performances, making it a landmark moment in the theatre's history.

The spokesman said: "Throughout the week, the enthusiasm and support from the Torquay community and beyond reached unprecedented levels, with every performance of SIX witnessing a full house and standing ovations.  The infectious energy of this pop-infused musical, which reimagines the stories of Henry VIII's six wives, resonated with audiences of all ages, creating an unforgettable experience for theatregoers.

"We are thrilled to announce that the production has shattered records, marking an exceptional week of sold-out shows at the Princess. The overwhelming response from our patrons is a testament to the power of live theatre and the incredible talent of the cast and crew."

The theatre says the success of SIX goes beyond the box office triumphs, as it reflects the venue's commitment to bringing diverse and engaging performances to the community. 

The Princess says it extends heartfelt gratitude to the local community, sponsors, and everyone who contributed to the success of  the musical as well as the other shows.

"This achievement not only celebrates the resilience of live theatre but also reinforces Torquay's reputation as a thriving hub for the arts," says the spokesman.

"As the curtains close on this remarkable chapter, the Princess Theatre looks forward to continuing its tradition of delivering exceptional entertainment and fostering a love for the performing arts."

To back that statement up, future shows lined up include An Officer and Gentleman, TOADS' 42nd Street, Jesus Christ Superstar, Lord of the Dance, Jimmy Carr and my all-time favourite Chitty Chitty Bang Bang - the tickets are already ordered!

It never ceases to amaze me how a theatre the size of the Princess manages to stage such large and high-quality shows putting the Bay on the entertainment map and providing a service for locals and visitors alike. I will never forget the night former general manager Wendy Bennett took me back stage to show me what a squeeze putting on shows was - epitomised by that particular musical's drummer playing in a portable cabin outside!

I have said it many times before, the Princess location and site is ideal for a regeneration project of the right kind.  Who knows we could be talking megga acts then. Barry Manilow included - oh, yes we could!