The stars of a highly anticipated production of Aladdin have donned their costumes to give theatregoers a sneak peek at what they can expect from the panto.
Running at the Brighton Centre from Thursday, December 22 to Tuesday, December 27 (excluding Christmas) production company E3 has promised a host of “spectacular elements” including “jaw-dropping sets”, “dazzling” costumes and “magical” special effects.
Former Eastenders actor and West End regular Anita Dobson will take on the role of villainous Abanazar.
The 73-year-old was in last year’s show which was postponed due to fears over the Omicron variant of Covid-19.
Joining Dobson is fellow West End star Mark Inscoe as Widow Twankee (Evita, Sweeney Todd, Priscilla – Queen of the Desert, Phantom of the Opera, Anything Goes, The Rat Pack – Live from Las Vegas, Sunset Boulevard, Funny Girl).
Carlene Graham will play Empress Me Me, Olivia Mitchell will play Aladdin’s Princess Jasmine, Louis Gaudenico takes on the role of Aladdin and Joe Bence will play Wishee Washee.
BBC Radio Sussex presenter Allison Ferns also joins the cast as the Genie of the Ring / Lamp.
David Hill, producer and director of Aladdin at The Brighton Centre, said: “We are utterly thrilled to be bringing Aladdin to Brighton. We have been producing pantomime in the city since 2017, but to be able to take this production to the Brighton Centre and have our cast perform for thousands of people is an absolute honour.
“We can’t wait for the laughter, and the fun, and have this much-loved Christmas tradition in our hometown! It will truly be a magical adventure for children and adults of all ages.”
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