Stars of Sleeping Beauty, the annual pantomime at the Theatre Royal, recently met young patients and their families at the RUH when they visited the Children’s Ward.
Pantomime stars with Piper, aged 13 months, and mum Maisie on the Children’s Ward | Photo © Theatre Royal Bath
Neil McDermott, Jon Monie, Nick Wilton, Sarah Jane Buckley, Emma Norman, David Pendlebury and Maisie Sellwood spent time chatting to patients and staff at the Royal United Hospital on 20th December before returning to the stage for the matinee performance.
Neil McDermott, well known for his roles in EastEnders and The Royal, said: “We really enjoyed visiting the Children’s Ward in our pantomime costumes, everyone at the RUH gave us such a warm welcome.
“It’s a difficult time of the year to be unwell, especially for youngsters who look forward to the festive season so much. We loved chatting to the children and their parents and hearing about their lives.”
Sarah Jane Buckley, best known for her roles in Hollyoaks and numerous theatre shows, said: “The Play Specialists have such a vital role in the recovery of the young patients, it was great to meet them and hear about their work on the Ward.
“The children receiving treatment are truly inspiring. We were thrilled to take some pantomime magic to the Ward, and we’re very grateful to Berkeley Coach and Travel who kindly transported us there in our elaborate stage outfits, making our visit possible.”
The pantomime stars were introduced to patients and their families on the Children’s Ward.
The cast was driven to the hospital in a mini-coach provided by local company Berkeley Coach and Travel.
During their visit the actors handed out goodie bags to the children, supplied by the pantomime’s sponsors Bath-based accountants Moore and Bath Carpets and Flooring.
Jo Powell, RUH Play Specialist, said: “We’re so grateful to the cast of Sleeping Beauty for visiting the Children’s Ward at the RUH.
“It was a wonderful early Christmas present for the children who loved meeting them and seeing their fantastic costumes.
“It’s given our young patients a bit of extra Christmas sparkle while they’re with us.”
