The circus recently came to Woking town centre as a legendary entertainer hit the streets for a showstopping launch with his panto pals.

Brian Conley and the cast of Goldilocks and the Three Bears recently came together - oh yes they did - to promote the much-anticipated 2026 pantomime at Woking Theatre.

This year’s panto will be even more of a family affair with Conley starring as Billy Barnum and Brian’s daughter, Lucy, seeking a perfect bowl of porridge as Goldilocks.

And with David Robbins (Dame Betty), Gary Milner (The Evil Ringmaster) and three very special bears thrown into the mix, the resulting show will definitely be just right.

Guests arriving at the newly-refurbished theatre for the August launch were transported straight into the world of the Big Top with its circus-inspired decorations and carnival props.

The cast made their grand entrance before posing for photographers, answering questions and heading into town to give shoppers an early taste of this year’s Christmas extravaganza.

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The carnival makes its way to Jubilee Square to promote the Woking Theatre panto. (Pic Ian Olsson) (Ian Olsson)

It certainly was a colourful procession with the cast being accompanied by a stilt walker and a hula-hoop artist on their walkabout to Jubilee Square.

Carnival music blared out with the cast posing for photos with shoppers and the Three Bears getting plenty of interest from some of the town’s youngest visitors.

The cast also tried their hand at traditional carnival games, including hoopla and a coconut shy, while Woking Theatre staff sold pantomime tickets from a traditional circus-themed ticket booth - helping to bring a little early Christmas magic to Woking.

The launch also promoted another c-word – charity – as representatives from two good causes were invited to join the celebrations. Gordon Parris MBE and Ann Parris MBE, founders of the Children with Special Needs Foundation, have long links with the theatre as they’ve generously purchased a seat for many previous pantos, giving children with special needs and their families the chance to experience the magic together.

Representatives from the theatre’s Charity Partner of the Year, Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, also attended along with their mascot to bring the bear count to four.

And also joining the festivities was Mayor of Woking, Cllr Rob Leach, marking his first visit to Woking Theatres & Cinema in an official capacity.

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The mayor of Woking, Cllr Rob Leach, found himself in hoops during the promo. (Pic Ian Olsson) (Ian Olsson)

He said: “Live theatre plays such an important role in bringing communities of all ages together.

“Having met Brian and members of the cast, I know audiences are in for a real treat. I’m also particularly pleased that this year's panto will support our local hospice and the tremendous work it does across our community.”

For those who want a taste of things to come, Goldilocks and her madcap friends will do battle in a bid to rescue their Big Top from ruin in the festive thriller.

Can they triumph against a wicked rival circus owner with an evil plan up his sleeve? All seems lost, until three brilliant bears join the gang.

Goldilocks will run from Friday, December 4 until January 3, with tickets now available via www.wokingtheatre.co.uk