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‘Spectacular’ images show rollicking range of Thursford Christmas show

Stuart Anderson

Published: 9:50 AM November 5, 2019

Updated: 8:19 PM October 10, 2020

Showgirls in costume for the Thursford Christmas Spectacular 2019. Picture: THURSFORD - Credit: Archant

Dancers, musicians and entertainers are putting the finishing touches to their routines ahead of the premiere of this year’s Thursford Christmas Spectacular.

Billy George will perform in his Cyr wheel at the Thursford Christmas Spectacular 2019. Picture: THURSFORD - Credit: Archant

A seven-week run of Europe's biggest Christmas show starts on Wednesday (November 6).

Special acts include comedian and ventriloquist Steve Hewlett, who reached the final of Britain's Got Talent, and one of the world's top acrobatic Cyr wheel specialists, Billy George.

Ensemble performances will have themes including masquerade, rock 'n' roll, hoedown barn and Charlie Chaplin.

Roller-skating double act Royer and Emelie will aim to wow the crowd with a gravity-defying routine, while theatre organist Phil Kelsall will play one of the Thursford Collections's most treasured instruments, the Mighty Wurlitzer.

A silk dancer rehearsing for the Thursford Christmas Spectacular 2019. Picture: THURSFORD - Credit: Archant

This year's show has a production budget of £2m and will feature a new lighting installation. Organisers are hoping it will be Thursford's biggest and best-ever season.