Hoghton Panto Society - HotPants - have invited recently retired Blackburn solicitor Malcolm Clay to write and direct their first production, Aladdin. It runs from January 26 to 28 and February 2 and 3.
Mr Clay has a lifelong love of variety and circus and has acted in court for many circuses and performers.
He is still heavily involved in circus matters and is secretary of the Circus Proprietors Association, frequently advising the government on circus, entertainment and animal welfare.
He has used his contacts to obtain props and routines including a traditional dragon from the Chinese State Circus, comedy props from Blackpool Tower and routines from international illusionist Van Buren.
Bobby Roberts Jnr, from Bobby Roberts Super Circus, has been coaching the cast in a slapstick decorating routine.
Mr Clay has also borrowed costumes from a top theatrical costumiers, including a Widow Twankey outfit once worn by Les Dawson.
"I was determined to use all my experience of circus and theatre to make this an unforgettable event," said Mr Clay.
Hoghton Panto Society, Hoghton Village Hall, January 26 to 28 and February 2 and 3. Call 01254 852258.
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