A KIDDERMINSTER-born actor is set to return to the area for an action-packed pantomime this Christmas season.
Michael Neri, actor and director, will play Simon in a production of Jack and the Beanstalk at the Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury.
This will be Mr Neri's second time starring in a pantomime at the theatre, having previously starred in last year's Cinderella.
Mr Neri said: "We all got on so well last year.
"We can’t wait to do it all again 2025 – the production is dynamite."
The actor heads his own youth theatre and studio in the town, Talking Props Theatre Company.
He said: "We’ve placed young people from Worcestershire in many major post-18 stage schools in the country.
"The Wyre Forest area has a fantastic arts scene," he continued.
"And for me it’s all about making arts accessible for kids in the area, just like others did for me."
Mr Neri started his career with Carpet Trades Musical Theatre Company at 16, before studying at Worcester University and Guildford School for Acting, and then going on to receive an Off-West End Theatre Award nomination for his two-man show, Wet Feet.
Jessica Brewster, director, said this year's pantomime will feature everything from 'astonishing sets to big song-and-dance numbers and that huge beanstalk!'
She said: "There will be so much happening on-stage."
Mr Neri will also direct and star in the adult version of the show.
He said: "It’s naughty, but faithful to the story.
"It’s not just rude jokes.
"Audiences will still get a proper theatrical experience, but the actors are able to push the boundaries a little more – we do a lot of improvisation and crowd participation.
"It’s so much fun."
He added: "It’s always fantastic to be back in the area where it all began.
"We get a lot of people from Wyre Forest and Worcester in our audiences at Tewkesbury – come and say hello to me."
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