The Grand Opera House have announced that York legend Berwick Kaler will be bulk buying Wagon Wheels, dusting off his frocks and making his much-anticipated, triumphant return to pantomime to star in Dick Turpin Rides Again this Christmas, running from 11 December 2021-9 January 2022.

The star of pantomime in York for 40 years, Berwick’s critically acclaimed performance as Dame has solidified his reputation as a true York institution having delighted generations of festive theatregoers every year, winning rave reviews from critics and audiences taking him to their hearts. Dick Turpin Rides Again marks his first pantomime at the Grand Opera House.

Having made his York pantomime debut as Ugly Sister in Cinderella in 1977, Berwick has performed, written and directed panto in the city ever since, calling out his iconic catchphrase ‘me babbies, me bairns’ and met with adoration from local audiences at every performance.

Dick Turpin Rides Again also reunites Berwick with his band of pantomime regulars, including comedy sidekick Martin Barrass, the villainous David Leonard, Yorkshire’s longest-serving principal girl Suzy Cooper and favourite funny man AJ Powell. Berwick will also write and direct the production.  This year’s Grand Opera House pantomime will be produced by Crossroads Pantomimes for the very first time, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, and the Olivier Award winning team behind pantomimes across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and at the world famous London Palladium each Christmas.

Crossroads Pantomimes’ Chief Executive Michael Harrison said: “We are absolutely delighted to be embarking on an all-new pantomime partnership with our colleagues at the Ambassador Theatre Group, Grand Opera House and, of course, Berwick and the gang. Berwick is an undeniable master in the world of pantomime, with his own inimitable style and approach and we are delighted to be working closely with him and the cast to bring back the magic for which they are best-known.”

For more information and to book tickets, please click here.