Richard Batson Stars of Cromer's summer show have an extra public performance to do this year - 10 days before the official “curtain up.”For the annual press launch Seaside Special, normally done in front of a gathering of local media and a few fascinated passers by on the pier, will involve a mini show on the stage of the 200-seater parish hall.

Richard Batson

Stars of Cromer's summer show have an extra public performance to do this year - 10 days before the official “curtain up.”

For the annual press launch Seaside Special, normally done in front of a gathering of local media and a few fascinated passers by on the pier, will involve a mini show on the stage of the 200-seater parish hall.

Comics, musicians, singers and dancers only have a few days to rehearse the slick shows before the opening night, so adding another show into the schedule increases the pressure on the team.

Director Di Cooke said: This is very exciting, and we are looking forward to the challenge of presenting a mini version of the show while we are in rehearsals.

“Taking this on as well is really testing the talents of both the cast and the back stage crew.”

The line up this year is led by comic and impersonator Peter Piper, who was a hit on his debut last summer. He is joined by young Scottish comedian Johnny Mac, Bulgarian violinst Teodora Ilieva, vocalists Georg Tormann and Laura Grace, and a six-strong troupe of dancers.

Advance tickets are selling fast and Rory Holburn, creative director of pier operators Operwide International, said Seaside Special was “one of the last great summer variety shows” which had evolved into a modern show for family audiences.

The company's success, in cooperation with the local council and businesses, was an excellent example to other seaside towns looking to secure the future of their theatres and grow their tourist trade.

The press launch mini show is at the parish hall starts at 12.15pm on Thursday June 12. The season runs from June 21 until September 20. Booking information from the Cromer Pier Pavilion on 01263 512495 or www.cromer-pier.com