Gareth Thomas To Star In Aladdin Pantomime Wrexham

Rugby legend Gareth Thomas will star in a Wrexham production of the pantomime Aladdin it has been revealed today.

Thomas who enjoyed a year long spell playing for the Crusaders in Wrexham was unveiled as the Genie of the Lamp at the Stiwt Theatre in Rhosllanerchrugog earlier this afternoon.

Affectionately known as Alfie throughout his dual code rugby career he is one of Wales’ most recognisable sporting talents.

Aladdin will soar into the Stwiwt for 37 fun-packed performances this Christmas from Tuesday 11th December 2012 to Wednesday 2nd January 2013 Wrexham.

Speaking at the pantomime launch Gareth Thomas said: “I am never one to back away from a challenge and try something new, so when I was offered this opportunity I thought it was too good to turn down. There is a great team behind the production who are all so enthusiastic about putting on a great show and I can’t wait to get back up to Wrexham at Christmas and have some fun.

“Having played rugby there for two years it will also be a good opportunity to catch up with old friends in the area. I hope we can encourage as many people as possible to get behind it and come and see me in costume!”

Stiwt Theatre Manager Rebecca Griffiths said “I’m so excited to have Gareth starring in Aladdin entertaining our local families this Christmas. Gareth is a huge personality, a great Welsh icon, he has an amazing sporting career with a worldwide following. I watched Gareth in Celebrity Big Brother and it shows he commits 100% in to anything he gets involved with! His presence on stage as the Genie of the Lamp is going to be epic.”

Performances will be 10am, 1pm, 2pm and 7pm on various days with no performances on Mon 17 Dec, Tue 25 Dec, Sun 30 Dec or Tue 1 Jan.

Tickets cost from £8 are on sale now in person at the Stiwt Theatre Box Office by calling 01978 841300 (Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm) or online at www.stiwt.co.uk.