York’s famous panto dame, Berwick Kaler, told audiences on the final night of Dick Turpin Rides Again at the Grand Opera House that he was devastated not to be there after testing positive for Covid.
In a letter, read out to the audience in the theatre last night (Sunday), he praised both Alan McHugh, who took over his role as Dotty Donut, and the loyal fans of the legendary show.
Both Berwick and Martin Barrass were forced off stage by positive test results. In his message, Berwick pointed out that it was still one of the few pantos in the country that have managed to complete their scheduled run.
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Here’s the letter which was read out by Alan McHugh, who stood in as Dame.
“The show must go on and thanks to this amazing cast, musicians, stage management, backstage crew and front of house staff, this panto has survived what nature has thrown at us.
“Having experienced no symptoms whatsoever it has been devastating for me to be forced to isolate this past week. But on a personal note, this is the only thing Martin Barrass has ever given me.
“Alan McHugh has been an ardent follower of our rubbish for many years and I cannot praise him enough. Likewise – PJ, my love and admiration to you both.
“But it is to you, the most loyal and long suffering audience that I heap the most praise on.
“Thanks to your continued support over more years than we’d care to remember, we have laughed together as one huge extended family.
“You are part of our lives and here’s to a few more years of belly laughs at the Grand Opera House York.”