13/01/2026
The Walter Wright award is awarded every year for an outstanding contribution for that year’s show. The winner is voted for by the cast, crew and anyone involved in the show.
2026 has been an exceptional year as there is not one, but TWO winners and both are very special.
Our first winner is the late Dawn Young. This year Dawn was organising all the props for the show. Even when unwell in hospital, Dawn’s priority was to still get the props organised and made, including sewing together sausages which you would have seen in the opening scene of the show. Dawn’s passing in December hit the cast and crew hard. She had been a part of Woodford Pantomime and sister company WOADS for over 40 years as a performer, committee member and director. Her wit, kindness and love will be missed but never forgotten and her legacy will live on with the company both on and off stage.
Our second winner is Bonnie Young. Bonnie is Dawn’s eldest daughter and was assisting Dawn with the props this year. After Dawn’s passing, Bonnie made it her mission to continue the job that her and her mum had started together. She still came to rehearsals and was at every performance ensuring all the props were where they needed to be, and of course made sure those sausages were set! Bonnie’s grit and determination in what has been the toughest few months for her and the family has been admired by everyone at the company.
Everyone at Woodford Pantomime is so grateful for Dawn and Bonnie. Both are very deserving winners of the Walter Wright Award 2026!
This one is for you Dawn ❤️
