Biggins flies in to launch panto

1:07pm Thursday 29th May 2008

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CHRISTOPHER Biggins and Matthew Kelly paid a flying visit to Southampton to launch this year's Christmas show yesterday.

Panto king Biggins descended from a helicopter on a rope ladder in full jungle camouflage to the cheers of gathered press and Mayflower regulars.

The helicopter's pilot was then revealed as Olivier award winning actor and TV presenter Matthew Kelly, who also starred in last year's Christmas show The Wizard of Oz.

The pair joined producer Matthew Rose on stage to answer questions about the new production Cinderella, The Musical Pantomime.

Biggins, who recently won ITV's I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here and plays Biggins in the show, said: "I've had a year off and I'm thrilled to be coming back to a pantomime that is undoubtedly going to be the best in the country, the essence of pantomime I believe in.

"Laughter will fill this auditorium.

I can't wait to appear at this magnificent theatre again."

Cinderella, The Musical Pantomime comes from the team who previously brought Mayflower audiences Santa Claus The Musical, White Christmas and The Wizard of Oz. It will star Matthew Rixon alongside his father Matthew Kelly as the Ugly Sisters as well as Fairy Godmother Stefanie Powers, best known for her role in 80s TV drama Hart to Hart.

Matthew Kelly said: "I absolutely love playing baddies and the ugly sisters are simply evil!

"We had a wonderful time here last year and this is going to be a joy!"

The magical tale which runs from December 5 to January 17 will also feature a 12-piece live orchestra. Tickets are on sale from the box office on 023 8071 1811 or mayflower.org.uk