Bev Cruxon-Lewis, charity operations and theatre co-ordinator at Viva Theatre, writes her first column for the Ely Standard.

Ely Standard: Bev Cruxon-Lewis writes for Viva Theatre.Bev Cruxon-Lewis writes for Viva Theatre. (Image: Viva Soham)

The Viva Theatre in Soham offers something for everyone in the run up to Christmas.

In their latest production, In the Company of… on Friday, November 17, Viva hosts the inimitable imagination of Janice Hallett as she divulges the creativity behind her latest novel, The Christmas Appeal – a yuletide murder mystery in which the discovery of a dead body disrupts the festive pantomime preparations of a group of small town amateur drama enthusiasts.

Janice will be holding a festive book signing as part of the evening.

Comedy legend Arthur Smith joins us on November 18 with his charmingly laconic blend of aphorisms, wry one-liners, poetry and more!

In just four weeks time, it’ll be laughs a plenty and less mystery when The Viva Theatre, Soham brings you the 'purrrfect family pantomime, Dick Whittington and his Fabulous Cat.

Following the huge success of Viva’s first-ever panto last year, we are delighted to bring you this traditional 'rags to riches tale'.

Audiences will be charmed and beguiled by the 'goodies' and the 'baddies' and there’ll be hilarity, live music, gags-a-plenty and a modern-day twist bringing the tale bang up-to-date for today’s audience making it appealing to young and old.

Come along and be enchanted by Fairy Bowbelles, watch as Sarah Suet, cooks up the perfect recipe for panto and find out if Dick manages to win the beautiful Alice Fitzwarren’s heart or will that Dastardly King Rat be too troublesome?

Opening night is December 1 and the panto runs until December 10 with matinee and evening performances.

Over the year Viva has celebrated sell-out performances with a range of productions, including plays and musicals by youth and adult members of Viva.

Viva continues to offer opportunities for volunteers and members to be a part of this thriving charitable community group.

INFO: Visit: www.viva-group.org for tickets and further information or call: Bev Cruxon-Lewis on: 01353 722228 or email: bev@viva-group.org.uk