London Palladium's pantomime

The 2016 pantomime set to take place at the London Palladium this Christmas has been shrouded in both secrecy and rumours throughout the summer. It will be the first time for many years that a pantomime has been staged at the West End theatre, so has been highly anticipated. Just recently it was announced that the title role of Cinderella at this year’s star-studded show will be played by Natasha J Barnes. Barnes has been understudying and performing the role of Fanny Brice in Funny Girl at the Savoy Theatre, and has received rave reviews in covering for Sheridan Smith. Barnes' previous theatre credits include American Idiot at the Arts Theatre, Chess at the Union Theatre and Snow White for the Old Vic and on tour. Cinderella, the magical rags-to-riches fairytale, will be the first pantomime performed at the London Palladium in almost three decades and stars the previously announced Paul O’Grady as The Wicked Stepmother, Julian Clary as Dandini, and Amanda Holden as The Fairy Godmother. These stars are sure to make this Christmas treat extra special as they add their own spin and naughtiness to the performances. Also announced recently is casting for The Wicked Stepsisters, who will be played by Suzie Chard and Wendy Somerville. Suzie Chard has recently appeared in Soho Cinders for Soho Theatre and Fings Ain’t Wot They Used T’Be for the Union Theatre. Wendy Somerville’s theatre credits include The Threepenny Opera for the National Theatre, Billy Elliot at the Victoria Palace Theatre and the UK tour and West End production of Hairspray. Suitable for children and adults alike, the London Palladium's Cinderella is set to be a showstopper over the festive period - it will be here before you know it! *London Palladium link updated 2019