Rotherham Theatres

The former 'X factor' favourite is swapping the boards of the Rotherham Civic Theatre for the ice rink in the popular television series 'Dancing on Ice', after one of the contestants was injured during rehearsals.

The TV series starts this Sunday and Chico is needed for the start of rehearsals on Friday, meaning he has reluctantly been forced to pull out of the Thursday, Friday and Sunday's performances of Rotherham's hugely-popular 'Jack and the Beanstalk', which is scheduled to run until Sunday. However, the 40 year old will be taking centre stage in all three shows on Saturday.

Chico apologised for leaving Rotherham early. He said: "I have a had a great time here in Rotherham, the people - both in the audiences and on the street - have been wonderful and I am sorry that I won't be able to close what has been a great show. However, I am sure that Matt Edmunds will do a tremendous job and the audiences will have a great time, whether I am there or not."

Rotherham Borough Council Theatres Manager Mark Scott said: "This is obviously a huge disappointment to us as Chico has proven himself a very popular figure in both the pantomime and around the town. But this is the world of show business and so 'Dancing on Ice' is a fantastic opportunity for him that he could not ignore. We will obviously wish him well but will complete this year's show, which ends on Sunday.

"We are sending a letter to customers who are affected by this and we are asking them to contact 01709 823641 if hey have any further queries."

Pantomime producers, Spillers Pantomimes, allowed Chico to attend a press call for the ice show last month. On that occasion - on December 16 - understudy Matt Edmunds deputised for Chico as 'Jack' to critical acclaim. He will now take the role of Jack when Chico is unavailable.

Mark added: "I understand some panto fans may be disappointed but I am confident that people will still enjoy the production - with or without Chico - this weekend. Matt is a fantastic young talent and is fully rehearsed in the role. I would urge people to judge for themselves how good the pantomime is despite Chico's absence."

"As ever, Rotherham's panto has been brilliantly received by theatre-goers who once again have enjoyed a brilliant show. So far, over 23,000 tickets have been sold for 'Jack and the Beanstalk' and we are now preparing for next year's show - which will be the wonderful Peter Pan."