This festive season, the stage is set for an enchanting adventure as Orchard West Theatre presents a spectacular new production of the much-loved fairy tale Sleeping Beauty from 14 December 2024 to 5 January 2025. The traditional family pantomime promises a mix of fairy tale magic, music, and show-stopping performances, set to be a truly unforgettable treat and the ultimate night out in family entertainment this Christmas!
Headlining the cast is Sydnie Christmas, fresh from her triumphant win as the 2024 Britain’s Got Talent champion. Hailing from Kent, Sydnie returns to her home county in her pantomime debut, playing the enchanting Fairy Christmas. After her stellar year, which includes the release of her debut album, Sydnie is excited to bring her signature sparkle to the stage. “I am thrilled to be spending Christmas at home and taking part in such a magical production. Playing Fairy Christmas is a dream come true, and I can’t wait to share the magic with the people of Kent!”
Joining Sydnie in this festive extravaganza are celebrated panto stars Simmons and Simmons, the hilarious father-and-son comedy duo who will this year celebrate 80 years on stage in pantomime between them! Also living locally Keith, who has been performing since 1968, makes his long-awaited panto debut at the Orchard Theatre, bringing laughter, silliness, and a heartwarming family connection to the stage. Keith Simmons will play King Prawn alongside Ben Simmons as Fusspot the Chamberlain, and says:“We’re bringing all the pantomime fun and magic to Dartford,” says Keith, “and we can’t wait to share the stage with Sydnie for this incredible show.”
The show will also feature Christian Lee, the comedy-magician sensation and 2016 Britain’s Got Talent finalist, as Josh the Jester. Known for his unique blend of comedy and magic, Christian is set to dazzle audiences. A member of the Inner Magic Circle, Christian has been dubbed the ‘King of Comedy Magic’ by Time Out and promises to bring plenty of wonder to the panto.
Joining the above are West End performers Cleve September as Prince (Hamilton), Lucy May Pollard as Beauty (Matilda) and Larissa Alexandrovnia as Carabosse (Sister Act). The Talented ensemble includes Evonnee Bentley-Holder, Rory Collins, Toni Paise, Max Rizzo, Beth Savill and Jack Shirley.
Sleeping Beauty is presented by the award-winning pantomime producer ImagineTheatre, which is headed up by CEO husband and wife team Steve and Sarah Boden. It is written by Steve Boden and Directed by Michael Vivian with Choreography from Katherine Iles. Musical Direction and arrangement is by Miles Russell. LX Design is by Will West with Sound Design by Matt Karmios.
Audiences can expect a show filled with their favourite panto ingredients, magical scenery, dazzling costumes, and the perfect mix of song, dance, and interactive fun. Theatre Manager Tal Rosen said, “We’re thrilled to welcome such a fantastic cast for this year’s panto. It’s going to be an extraordinary production, filled with laughter, magic, and all the things that make pantomime a firm family favourite. Imagine Theatre are experts in delivery high-quality, family friendly, spectacular productions and so we are absolutely thrilled they will be presenting Sleeping Beauty at Orchard West.”
The tale of Sleeping Beauty will enchant audiences of all ages as they follow the story of a princess cursed by the wicked fairy Carabosse to fall into an enchanted sleep. Will anyone be able to break the spell? Can anyone rescue her from the magical slumber before it is too late?
With plenty of audience participation, spectacular effects, and surprises around every corner, this is one show not to be missed.
Visit www.orchardtheatre.co.uk. To find out more about his magical family experience and prepare for a festive season full of fairy tale fun!