Heading the cast in this year’s Theatre Royal Margate pantomime is popular former EastEnder Ricky Groves.

You can buy early bird tickets to see Ricky and the cast this Christmas in Beauty and the Beast before the deadline of Tuesday, September 30. Standard prices apply from Wednesday, October 1 onwards.

Famous for playing mechanic Gary in the BBC soap for nine years, Ricky has also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, Let’s Dance for Sport Relief and most recently in the hit ITV show Splash!

He has performed in various pantomimes throughout the UK, and is thrilled to be spending Christmas in Margate.

He said: “I can’t wait to perform at the Theatre Royal as it is the perfect venue for pantomime.

“Beauty and the Beast is a great story that will appeal to all ages, and I get to cause some chaos and mischief in the show too!”

Appearing alongside Ricky will be West End star Robert Rawles, who lives in nearby Broadstairs and will be playing Dame Dolly Doughnut.

Robert is delighted to be performing near his home town and has appeared in numerous pantomimes throughout his career as well as starring in the BBC1 sitcom Keeping Up Appearances.

Chorus auditions were held in May with more than 65 children competing for one of the 24 places on offer.

Scenery is already being constructed and costumes are being created for what promises to be one of the most spectacular pantomimes ever staged at the historic theatre.

Beauty and the Beast will open on Saturday, December 13, and runs until Sunday, December 28.

There are discounts available for schools, groups and families. Early bird tickets cost from £11 before Wednesday, October 1. Standard tickets cost from £13 from Wednesday, October 1 onwards.

Book by telephoning the Theatre Royal box office on 01843 292795 or online at www.theatreroyalmargate.com