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Stars announced for Ipswich Regent Theatre's Christmas panto

News

It's nearly Christmas! Oh, no, it isn't. But that hasn't stopped the Regent Theatre from announcing that TikTok sensation Abbie Budden and EastEnders actor Michael Greco will headline Jack and the Beanstalk at the Ipswich Regent Theatre this December.

The big picture: Enchanted Entertainment, known for previous record-breaking pantomimes at the Regent, is producing the show which runs from 17 to 31 December 2024.

Poster for Jack and the Beanstalk at the Ipswich Regent
Poster for Jack and the Beanstalk at the Ipswich RegentIpswich Regent

Key cast members: The star-studded cast is expected to draw large audiences to the theatre during the festive season:

  • Abbie Budden as Jill: The TikTok star and recent performer in Cruel Intentions: The '90s Musical

  • Michael Greco as Fleshcreep: Best known for playing Beppe di Marco in EastEnders

  • Louie Spence as Spirit of the Beans: Dancer and TV personality from Pineapple Dance Studios

  • Returning favourites Gavin Ashbarry and Mike "Squeaky" McClean

What they're saying: Councillor Jane Riley, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, said: "We're delighted to be bringing this star-studded cast who will be ready to wow audiences during the festive season at the Ipswich Regent Theatre."

The bottom line: The production promises "laughter, music, and plenty of surprises" for Ipswich audiences this Christmas and is expected to sell out fast. Tickets start from £15.

How to watch: Book tickets online at ipswichtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/jack-and-the-beanstalk-christmas-panto

Former Ipswich Town striker charged in £600k cannabis smuggling case

News

Former Ipswich Town striker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas has been charged with attempting to smuggle £600,000 worth of cannabis through a UK airport.

The big picture: The 33-year-old, who spent two seasons at Portman Road from 2011 to 2013, was arrested by National Crime Agency officers in Scotland following the seizure of approximately 60kg of the drug at Stansted airport.

Jay Emmanuel Thomas playing for Ipswich Town
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas playing for TownAlamy

Key details:

  • Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, 33, was arrested Wednesday in Gourock, Inverclyde.

  • He's accused of attempting to smuggle £600,000 worth of cannabis through Stansted airport.

  • Border Force officers found approximately 60kg of the drug in two suitcases from Bangkok.

  • Emmanuel-Thomas is set to appear at Carlisle magistrates court Thursday, charged with importing class B drugs.

60kg of cannabis
60kg of cannabis was seizedNCA

JET's Ipswich career: The journeyman joined Ipswich in 2011 for £1.1m from Arsenal, scoring nine goals in 75 appearances for the Tractor Boys. He left Ipswich in 2013 in a swap deal with Bristol City. He most recently played with Greenock Morton in the Scottish Championship.

The bottom line: The NCA warns that cannabis smuggling into the UK carries a maximum 14-year prison sentence, contradicting misinformation some couriers receive about facing only fines.

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