Denise Welch pulls out of Newcastle panto after not getting paid for Jack And The Beanstalk role
The heartbroken star had to leave the production after it was hit by delays, technical problems and a pay row
DENISE Welch has dropped out of her role as Mother Nature in Newcastle’s Jack And The Beanstalk because she wasn’t paid and was concerned by "chaotic" rehearsals.
The former Loose Woman left the production today after a series of problems backstage including cast and crew not receiving wages on time, "chaotic rehearsals" and sets not being finished on time, insiders claim.
The source says: “It was a total shambles backstage – the panto wasn’t ready to open when it was due to this Monday, so the first two days of shows were cancelled.
“Sets weren’t finished, a technical rehearsal set for last Friday couldn’t go ahead because the production was running so behind.
“Another rehearsal was a total disaster, and then cast weren’t being paid on time or at all. At one point, an Equity rep had to be called in to mediate.
“A few days into panto rehearsals, Denise and other cast started getting concerned as it wasn’t very professional at all because no-one seemed to know what they were doing."
The insider adds: “Some of the crew had never even worked backstage before.”
Contrary to reports earlier today, Denise did not drop out due to health issues.
In a statement Denise tells The Sun Online: "I am so terribly upset and hugely disappointed that I will no longer be appearing in the Times Square Pantomime in Newcastle.
“Those who know me and have supported me during my 40 year career will know how passionate I am about my job, Newcastle and it's people.
“All I ever wanted was to star in a fabulous, spectacular pantomime that I have been proudly publicising since February. If there was anything I could do to change this highly regrettable situation I would.
“Legally, I can say no more but I write this with a heavy heart.”
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Co-star Adam Thomas is still thought to be appearing.
Production company Nice Swan tell The Sun Online: "I can confirm that we will be proceeding with the pantomime without Denise. There are no issues with set or production standards.
"Equity visited the Pantodrome earlier in the week at Denise’s request, to asses the safety of the building and the facilities provided and no issues were outlined from this. Performances will continue from today until the 30th December."
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