A Norwich business has been named as the financial Fairy Godmother of this year's Norwich Theatre Royal pantomime.

Financial advisers Almary Green has been announced as the sponsor of the theatre's annual festive show which this year is going to be Sleeping Beauty.

Carl Lamb, the founder and managing director of Thorpe St Andrew-based Almary Green, said the sponsorship was part of its aim to become more involved in local communities. The firm celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and has set up a separate �10,000 charity awards fund to help good causes.

He said: 'Sponsoring the pantomime is another delightful way of developing that involvement.

'Pantomime is something very special and it appeals to all ages. As well as bringing so much pleasure, it is a wonderful introduction to the theatre.

'If you take children at an early age, they become hooked. We've always taken our family to the pantomime.'

He added: 'It is an educational tool which introduces people at a young age to the joys of live entertainment. That is something I feel passionate about.'

News of the sponsorship comes as planning for this year's pantomime is gathering pace with many of the cast already confirmed. Former Hollyoaks heart-throb Kevin Sacre – who played Jake Dean in the hit Channel 4 soap – will take on the role of the Prince and Helen Fraser – the grumbling prison warden Sylvia Hollamby in the TV show Bad Girls – is playing the Wicked Queen. Panto veteran Richard Gauntlett will be writing, directing and once again donning an array of spectacular dresses when he takes on the role of Nurse Pickle – and his comedy partner-in-crime Andre Vincent will be the nurse's son Muddles.

John Bultitude, of Norwich Theatre Royal, said: 'We are delighted to welcome Almary Green to our panto family.

'The company will be featured within our pantomime content in print and on-line – and we will also work with them on their aim to encourage even more young people to enjoy live performances.'

Sleeping Beauty will be at Norwich Theatre Royal from December 14 until January 15. Tickets cost between �5 and �19. For more information or to book call 01603 630000 or visit www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

Do you know someone who is set for stardom on stage or screen? Call reporter Emma Knights on 01603 772428 or email emma.knights@archant.co.uk