A Muslim panto is coming to Bolton after Christmas with a rendition of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
The Great Muslim Panto by charity, Penny Appeal, is back for another year with production Beauty and the Balaah, a take on the Disney classic Beauty and the Beast for December 31.
Taking place at St James CE School in Farnworth, the panto on tour will raise money for Penny Appeal’s winter emergency appeal and the Gaza emergency appeal.
Written, directed, and starring the Abdullah Afzal from BBC's Award-Winning Citizen Khan, Abdullah also wrote, directed and starred in last year's Great Muslim Panto, Cinder’Aliyah.
The story follows a young prince who is transformed into a ‘balaah’ (a beast) after showing cruelty and greed, by an evil wizard.
And of course, the only way to break the curse, is to love and be loved.
A spokesman for Penny Appeal said: “Aisha, our spirited hijabi protagonist, takes centre stage.
“As the story unfolds, Aisha discovers the plight of the cursed prince and the transformative journey that awaits both of them.
“Abdullah Afzal's masterful storytelling weaves together elements of humour, drama, and cultural richness, creating an immersive experience for audiences of all backgrounds.
“The Great Muslim Panto has become a symbol of unity and inclusivity, breaking barriers and fostering a sense of community.”
The panto is an annual event which aims to raise money for one of Penny Appeal’s causes while providing fun entertainment for all families.
A spokesman said: “The magic extends beyond the stage, and as always, the Great Muslim Panto supports charitable initiatives through Penny Appeal.
“This year, profits will benefit the plight of our brothers and sisters suffering in Gaza.
“Fairytales have always celebrated the triumph of light over dark, good over evil, we hope that this tour can go some way to teaching children that when we try hard enough, love and triumph over adversity, and humanity can prevail over injustice. “
Tickets are already on sale for the panto in Bolton, with a nationwide tour currently taking place.
Tickets are £25 each and people can also volunteer to help out at the event an any future Penny Appeal events in the future.
Get tickets here. (pennyappeal.org/event/the-great-muslim-pantomime)
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article