Broadcast at 5.00 pm on Christmas Day 1969, this BBC1 Christmas pantomime (the Beeb’s first filmed in colour) starred Liverpudlian comedian Jimmy Tarbuck as Buttons (reprising the role he had also played in the BBC’s 1967 version), Anita Harris in the title role, and Beryl Reid and Jack Tripp as the Ugly Sisters.
Children’s favourite Basil Brush made a special appearance.
The cast were supported by the Bowles Bevan Singers and the Denise Shaune Dancers.
The pantomime was directed by Peter Whitmore and produced by Freddie Carpenter.
The show, costing £25,000, was recorded in November on the stage of the Odeon Cinema at Golder’s Green in London.
Annoyingly, in these pre-VCR days, ITV aired their own pantomime – Aladdin with Mike and Bernie Winters – at 4.30 pm on the same day.
Buttons
Jimmy Tarbuck Cinderella
Anita Harris Fairy Godmother
Ursula Howells Ugly Sister Marlene
Beryl Reid Ugly Sister Florence
Jack Tripp Prince Charming
Ian Paterson Dandini
Allen Christie Baron
Graham Squire Principal Dancers
Leigh Foster
Vreni Zullic
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Children’s favourite Basil Brush made a special appearance.
