The upcoming family pantomime Aladdin at Dartford’s Orchard West just got even more magical with the announcement that Ruby Mann has been cast as Princess Jasmine following an extensive open audition searching for talent across Kent.
Ruby made her panto debut last year in Manchester and is delighted to return to the festive stage. She recently completed her master’s degree in musical Theatre at the Guildford School of Acting in 2023. Before that, she earned a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre from the University of Chichester Conservatoire.
Ruby is thrilled to be performing in this year’s pantomime in Dartford and said: “Dreams really do come true! So excited to be stepping into the magic carpet shoes of Princess Jasmine in this year’s Aladdin panto at the Orchard West!”
At the recent auditions, after careful deliberation by the judging panel, Ruby was selected from a strong field of 46 performers, each put through a rigorous process that began with a high-energy dance call, followed by vocal performances and readings from the script. The panel were impressed with her exceptional singing, dancing, and acting, proving to be exactly the triple threat the creative team were looking for.
Tal Rosen, Theatre Director at Orchard West said ‘In Dartford, we’re passionate about championing artists and performers from all backgrounds, which is why hosting this open call was so exciting. The level of talent we saw on the day was truly inspiring, making the final decision incredibly tough, although Ruby shone as a phenomenal performer! We’re delighted to say we’ve found our perfect Princess in Ruby and can’t wait to welcome her to the company this festive season.’
Ruby joins a star-studded cast including national treasure Linda Robson, hilarious comedian Rikki Jay, Jason-Marc-Williams who will dust of the bra and stilettos as Dame Widow Panky, Britain’s Got Talent’s magical Mandy Muden and West-End star Cleve September.
Will Aladdin be able to thwart the wicked sorcerer, gain control of the magic lamp and win the heart of Jasmine? Come along and find out!
Make magical memories with this fun-packed family friendly pantomime, suitable for everyone aged 3 to 103! Aladdin with have all of the panto ingredients you know and love – expect a dastardly villain, a hapless comic, a hilarious panto dame, as well as fabulous musical numbers, bags of slapstick fun and a magic lamp to make all your panto dreams come true! Grab your tickets now to this fabulous festive treat before they fly out of the door!
With tickets from just £15 climb aboard your magic carpet and head to Orchard West this Christmas for a panto packed with fun for all ages, from 3 to 103! Visit www.orchardwest.co.uk for tickets and info.
Ahead of the pantomime Dartford locals have the chance to meet Ruby as Princess Jasmine as she joins Dartford Book Festival which will be hosted at Orchard West on Sat 20 September. In a celebration of classic children’s literature and latest publishing sensations activities will include arts, storytelling, interactive characters and lots more. Find out more at www.dartford.gov.uk