Britain’s Got Talent and Strictly Come Dancing star AJ and Curtis Pritchard visit Thursford Christmas Spectacular as it pulls out all the stops – review

A festive show that will see some 100,000 visitors through its doors has pulled out all the stops once again this year – and welcomed two VIP visitors.

The Thursford Christmas Spectacular has started its run which leads up until December 23 where people from all over the country – including Lincolnshire – descend upon the sleepy Norfolk village.

And special guests AJ and Curtis Pritchard – dancing and reality television stars from Britain’s Got Talent and Strictly Come Dancing – popped in to watch a show and meet the cast.

It features speciality acts this year – mountain bike tricks, roller skating feats and as the curtain closes real doves fly through the air.

Producer and director John Cushing OBE with sons George and Charlie part of the team said: “The show is good and there are 100,000 booked which should go up to 105,000.

“We have noticed booking has been a bit later this year – though we had 27,000 pre booked since last year.

“Traditionally we have always been full – and we intend to have a full house.”

The showbusiness stalwart used to work in the laundry business in Fakenham and today’s Spectacular started as a small choral concert.

Mr Cushing said: “I pinch myself – the fact that coaches come from all over the country – people have got to make an effort to get here.

“It started as a carol concert – with an amateur choir – and with word of mouth it has gained momentum.

“People pass 20 or 30 theatres to get to this – so it must be special.”

This is the 46th annual show and is hosted by Lloyd Hollett The Comedy Wordsmith who is a natural with the audience and keeps proceedings moving.

The variety show is second-to-none – with some 150 performers taking part – big musical song and dance numbers are contrasted with moving Christmas hymns.

It is like a Christmas explosion with the venue adorned with giant decorations and a fully functioning carousel in the auditorium.

A group from Lincoln gave a cheer when they were mentioned by the host and the second show of the run got a standing ovation.

Visit www.thursford.com for further information.

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