Eden Court cancels this year's Cinderella panto
The festive show generates over one third of the entire yearly income
Eden Court's pantomime is cancelled for the first time in over four decades.
The Inverness based theatre say it was an "incredibly difficult decision," but have decided to postpone the Cinderella show until 2021/22.
Eden Court's Chief Executive, James Mackenzie-Blackman is "hugely disappointed" the panto won't take place this year.
He said: "Pantomime accounts for over a third of the income we receive through tickets on an annual basis.
"We estimate our losses as a result of the postponement of pantomime to be in the region of ÂŁ350,000.
"The importance of this decision has weighed heavily on my shoulders for many months.
"I have wanted to wait as long as possible before deciding but we can now not delay any further and have to face the reality that there are too many factors that make the delivery of pantomime impossible."
It's the first time Eden Court have postponed the pantomime in its 44-year-history.
Last year’s panto, Beauty and the Beast, was Eden Court’s most successful ever, bringing over 36,000 people to the venue over its 51 performances.
Director, Co-Writer & Legendary Dame of Eden Court panto, Steven Wren has promised a bigger and better show for everyone next year.
He said: "I’m really sad not to be spending my Christmas in Inverness.
"The Eden Court staff have become true friends over the years and the Highland audiences are just the very best.
"I can guarantee that when Cinderella finally gets to the ball in 2021 it’s going to be one giant party for all of us performers and most importantly, our loyal audiences."
Customers who have booked tickets to Cinderella will hear from Eden Court staff in due course.
Tickets will be valid for Cinderella 2021 at a rescheduled date, with the same seats.
If customers are not able to attend in 2021/22, they will be able to claim either a gift voucher or full refund back to the original payment method.