Read the latest from Pete Price
Next year the Liverpool Empire Theatre will reach the grand old age of 100.
I look forward to following in this iconic building’s footsteps. Believe it or not, this impressive theatre helped me become who I am today.
I was nine years old when my mother introduced me to live theatre. It was my first ever experience, and it was of course a panto.
Oh yes, it was.
Starring Joan Regan and Dickie Valentine in Dick Whittington, who would have thought years later, I would be on that stage treading the boards in panto of the same name with the Blakeney twins from Neighbours.
It was 1992.
I say it over and over: panto is essential, not only for the revenue that gets the theatres through the winter months but also for bringing young children, who hopefully will become the next generation of audiences.
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I was thrilled in 2007 to be in the presence of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, as I attended the Royal Command performance at the Empire. Funnily enough I went this year to the Royal Albert Hall in the presence of the King.
The show was, as ever, fantastic.
All of the proceeds go towards people in my industry who have been hit by hard times. The after show in 2007 at St George’s Hall will leave a lasting memory, as there I met the late American comedienne Joan Rivers, a force of nature.
Over the years I have been involved in some charity fundraising nights at the Empire, but the best things I have done are the seven pantos. There was one that was very different, with American actress, model, personality and author, Pamela Anderson.
The Baywatch sensation caused quite a stir in the national press. She had an entourage and personal bodyguard with her, due to stalkers.
Her performance on stage was, in parts, provocative. The best panto of my career at the Empire was Cinderella, starring my lovely friend Cilla Black in 2008.
This panto was the end, and the icing of the cake, of the Capital of Culture, with a star-studded cast. People came from all over the world to watch this spectacular sell-out.
So I am looking forward to seeing what treats the Empire have lined up for their 100th birthday year. What a great way to finish 2024 with Disney’s classic Aladdin.
With a larger-than-life genie, opulent sets, tremendous talent, a magic carpet, and a happy ending. Thank you to the Liverpool Empire, for shaping my life and I am sure, millions of others as well.
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