ACTOR Guy Henry took time off from filming to drop in on a Christchurch production of Annie recently.

Mr Henry, who is best known for playing Henrik Hanssen in Holby City, joined Highcliffe Charity Players on stage at the Regent Centre after the show.

The actor, who is president of the talented company, said: “It was a splendid night at the theatre. Huge congratulations to all, on stage and off.

“The performances were witty and touching, the staging was deft and the band was soaring.” Guy, who made his stage debut with HCP as a footman in Sleeping Beauty at St Mark’s Hall, Highcliffe, at the age of 13, was joined at Saturday night’s performance by his parents Michael and Diz Henry, who were founder members of HCP in the early 1970s.

“They were delighted to see how wonderfully the enterprise has developed over the years,” said Guy. “And I know they feel proud to have been a part of it, as I am to be Charity Players’ president.” He added: "There’s such a generous-spirited and big-hearted atmosphere at HCP’s shows that it’s a treat to be there. I’m already looking forward to seeing most of the company in tights in Robin Hood early in the new year.”

Robin Hood will be HCP’s new year pantomime, playing at the Regent Centre from January 17-24, 2015.