For the first time in nearly three decades, this Christmas will see the magic of pantomime come to the London Palladium with a star-studded production of Cinderella planned.
Staged by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, Cinderella and its magical rags-to-riches tale will play from 9 December to 15 January.
The festive family show will be co-directed by Qdos’ Michael Harrison, the producer behind West End hits including Gypsy and Mrs Henderson Presents, and award-winning choreographer Andrew Wright (Mrs Henderson Presents, Singin’ In The Rain).
Described as a “breath-taking family extravaganza with glittering sets”, the Daily Mail today reported Harrison as having commented the show would be a “spectacular production” that would be “stuffed” with stars, and feature a horse-drawn carriage and a flying sports car.
Cinderella will mark the first pantomime at the iconic venue in 29 years, following a long history from 1948 to 1987 of the theatre staging lavish traditional Christmas shows featuring the biggest stars of the day from Julie Andrews to Peter Sellers.
Commenting on the art form’s return to the stunning venue, Qdos’ Chairman Nick Thomas said: “Given the rich history of the London Palladium, where galaxies of top entertainers have appeared in traditional family pantomime, Qdos Entertainment is greatly honoured to have been invited to stage Cinderella at this iconic theatre.
“We are thrilled to be bringing pantomime back following an absence of nearly three decades with a sumptuous production that befits The Palladium’s role as the home of pantomime in London.”
Casting for Cinderella is still to be announced.