University joins panto team

The University, which this year launched the UK’s first degree dedicated to the art of pantomime, is to sponsor the Gatehouse pantomime Cinderella which runs from Friday 9 December – Saturday 31 December.

Directed by Richard Cheshire – Course Leader for the MA Contemporary Pantomime Practice and MA Collaborative Theatre Practice – Cinderella is expected to attract more than 18,000 visitors to the county town over the festive period.

Staffordshire University Vice-Chancellor Professor Martin Jones said: “We’re delighted to have this opportunity to connect with families and theatre-goers over this year’s pantomime.

“We have invested nearly £50m into our two Staffordshire campuses this year alone, using next generation teaching and facilities to inspire and nurture the talent of the region. Arts and culture have an important part to play in enriching the lives of people living in our communities and we want to play a starring role.”

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Manager Gary Stevens added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Staffordshire University for this year’s Cinderella pantomime. The University plays a big role in Stafford and its Masters course in Contemporary Pantomime Practice is an example of the innovation that makes Staffordshire such a creative county.

“We hope as many people as possible will join us for a family visit to the theatre for a panto that has something for everyone – oh yes it does!’

Staffordshire University’s Blackheath Lane campus in Stafford is currently the study base for more than 2,000 student nurses, midwives, operating department practitioners and paramedics.

Featuring the most advanced health simulation technology, the Centre for Health Innovation has benefited from £5.8 investment from the government’s Getting Building Fund and offers a series of flexible and immersive simulation spaces designed to enhance clinical competency and the learning experience for students.

Professor Jones added: “Our new sector-leading facilities in Stafford will help drive the digital health agenda and accelerate the transformation of the health workforce using immersive technology and advanced teaching. We’re also delighted that the Centre will play a key role in supporting start-ups and SMEs through the facilities, expertise and support we have to offer, driving new innovations and promoting new product development and research.”

Staffordshire University will also use the Gatehouse sponsorship opportunity to promote its courses across a broad range of subject areas including Business, Computing, Criminology, Law, Psychology and Sport and Exercise. Campus tours and subject showcases are taking place at Stafford and Stoke-on-Trent throughout December and January.

For Cinderella tickets and information click here