The Courtyard team are delighted to have received nominations in two different categories for their pantomime Beauty and the Beast in the UK Pantomime Association’s Pantomime Awards 2023.

The categories for which Beauty and the Beast has been nominated for awards are: Best Script (Lyndsay Maples) and Best Direction (Estelle van Warmelo).

Writer Lyndsay Maples, who also received a Pantomime Award nomination for Best Script for Cinderella in 2020, and Jack and the Beanstalk in 2022 said “I’m so proud that Beauty and the Beast has been nominated for best script at this year’s UK Pantomime Associations Pantomime Awards and so happy to be nominated alongside Director Estelle van Warmelo, who every year takes my words and gives them wings to fly! A lot of heart and soul is put into The Courtyard pantomimes by everyone in the team, and it’s great when our efforts are recognised like this.”

The Courtyard prides itself on producing, writing, and directing its professional annual pantomimes in-house. Many members of the cast return to The Courtyard year after year and the seasoned writer and director have been working together on these productions for over 10 years.

“I am delighted our show has been nominated again” said Director, Estelle van Warmelo, “Every year, monumental levels of care go into the production and it’s heart-warming to know that the phenomenal talents of our hard-working team are recognised. The nomination reflects the skill and dedication of my creative collaborators, not least my Associate Director Ellis Kerkhoven and Assistant Madeleine MacMahon. I’m fiercely proud of our tenacious little company and thrilled that The Courtyard has once again earned its place on the national panto platform.”

The Pantomime Awards are the industry recognised awards for celebrating the best of this British theatrical institution.

Judges are selected from a range of backgrounds for their knowledge and passion for pantomime. During the judging process, judges watch and mark the show based on a wide-ranging criteria covering all elements of the pantomime, for which they write a detailed commentary.

Following its’ best-selling year ever, The Courtyard’s pantomime for 2023/24 will be the classic tale of Dick Whittington. Spirited hero Dick and his feline friend pack up their handkerchief to embark on an epic adventure seeking fame and fortune. Their magical rags to riches tale will take audiences on an exciting journey to London Town… but will the streets be paved with gold?

As part of The Courtyard’s commitment to inclusivity, there will be a range of accessible performances including Relaxed, Dementia Friendly, BSL signed and Audio Described performances.

Tickets for Dick Whittington are on sale now and can be booked via Box Office in person, by calling 01432 340555 or online at courtyard.org.uk.