A BEAUTY and the Beast pantomime will welcome back a star of the opera as Queen Wilhelmina.

Joseph Shovelton, who was born in Leigh and was once a member of St Joseph’s Players, is returning to his former club to help stage the magical story of Beauty and the Beast.

He left to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and has since performed principally with the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company and appeared as Snout in A Midsummer Night’s Dream for Opera North.

Pauline Dowsett, from the players, said: “Joseph had such fun and was such a hit with the audience playing the Dame in Dick Whittington, he decided to come back this year to play the part of the Queen – minus his beard.”

Singing sensation Zoe Unsworth will also take to the stage at St Joseph’s Concert Hall, on Chapel Street, Leigh, for the performances between January 22 and February 1, with both evening and matinee shows available.

Tickets, which are on sale from Ratcliffe’s Bike Shop on Bradshawgate or by contacting P.Galloway@care4free.net, are £8 adults or £4 for 16 years and under.

For more information call Pauline on 07914 518581 or 01942 604603