News Cast’s Christmas magic delivers record audiences, rave reviews and £10,000 raised for the community

Cast has celebrated its most successful Christmas season to date, welcoming record audiences, receiving rave reviews, and raising more than £10,000 to support its charitable work across Doncaster. With its pantomime Cinderella and children’s show Hansel & Gretel, the theatre entertained over 33,000 people, delivered 12 accessible performances, and ensured thousands of children and families could experience the magic of live theatre during the festive period.

Cinderella alone welcomed 31,270 people across its run, generating over £535,000 at the box office, while Hansel & Gretel introduced more than 2,600 young children to theatre in a specially created, relaxed and immersive environment. This marks the third consecutive year of record-breaking Christmas attendance at Cast.

James Blakey, Cast’s new Director, added:
“To step into Cast following such a remarkable Christmas season has been inspiring. From record-breaking audiences and outstanding reviews, to the extraordinary efforts of our staff and volunteers in raising vital funds, this has been a powerful reminder of what this theatre means to the city. The success of Cinderella and Hansel & Gretel directly supports our work with young people, communities and audiences who might otherwise miss out.”

Alongside its artistic success, Cast’s Christmas fundraising campaign raised over £10,000, more than 20% up on the previous year. Funds were generated through bucket collections, donation devices, a festive appeal, a partnership with Lakeside Shopping Centre, round-up donations in the café bar, and Cast’s much-loved Festive Fundraiser, which welcomed 359 audience members this year. The money raised will support youth theatre, dementia-friendly programming, community projects, Doncaster People’s Theatre and continued work to improve access.

The festive season was packed with standout moments, including 12 accessible performances, 2,669 free tickets given away, 733 carer tickets provided, and 260 tickets funded by local Councillors. Almost 100 schools and nurseries attended Christmas performances, audiences travelled from as far as India, New Zealand and Paris, and an 43 additional freelancers were employed to support the productions. Over 3,700 costume changes took place, 62 confetti cannons were fired, and more than 7,000 ice creams were enjoyed.

Cinderella received rave reviews from audiences and critics alike, with praise for its energy, performances and festive sparkle, further cementing Cast’s reputation for delivering high-quality, inclusive family theatre.

More information about Cast, its upcoming programme and ways to support the theatre can be found at castindoncaster.com