A popular pantomime in a Buckinghamshire theatre has won three entertainment awards, including best box office winner.

The Elgiva’s Sleeping Beauty attracted packed audiences during its run of 52 performances in just four weeks in December.

After charming the audiences, the pantomime produced by The Elgiva with New Pantomime Productions, went on to woo the judge of Atlantic 195, a global internet radio serving almost 200 countries behind the awards.

The judge Steven Clark visited pantos across the UK, including London’s Hackney Empire and Theatre Royal in York, before rewarding Sleeping Beauty with 2022 Best Box Office Winner, Best Principal Girl and Outstanding Achievement.

The Elgiva’s manager David Cooper commented the success: “We had an absolute blast with Sleeping Beauty this season! We knew from audience feedback that this was our best panto yet, and its lovely to have the dedication and commitment of the cast, crew and staff recognised in this way. Panto is a very special part of what we do at The Elgiva and it's very much a team effort bringing that magic and sparkle to the community at Christmas

“We're already hard at work behind the scenes creating next year's magic – Cinderella – so please join us next December for another treat!”

Actor Laura Bazely, winner of best principal girl title for her role as the heroine, said she was proud of the show, and the whole cast creating “an amazing production.”

She continued: “As a local performer, The Elgiva gave me a massive opportunity this year – it was full of Christmas magic, and I’m so happy to be ending the season with loads of happy memories, and even an award!”

Winner of the outstanding achievement for Chester the Jester Chris Edgerley loved his first appearance at The Elgiva, a venue he described as “making you feel at home” after big flashy theatres.

He said: “I can’t tell you how friendly, welcoming and homely The Elgiva is as a venue.

“I hope my first visit to The Elgiva is not my last as I think this venue is a gem and provides a solid heart beat to the welcoming community of Chesham.”

Judge Steven has been involved with pantomime for more than 30 years, including writing and producing his first village panto at 13-years-old.

He said visiting large venues and shows filled with celebrities can get you lost, but visiting places like The Elgiva brings him “back to my roots and happier times of that first village pantomime.”

READ MORE: Chesham: Bucks Council removes 'dangerous' ad van

“Don't get me wrong, The Elgiva pantomime is just as much fun (if not more) than a big flashy all bells and whistles production – but it is the sense of community and togetherness that makes it special.”

The Elgiva got the Best Box Office award because of the “overwhelmingly positive” warm welcome, Steven said.

“I think The Elgiva is a little jewel on the outskirts of London,” he added.