Additional Set Cast for CINDERELLA Panto at Orchard Theatre

The Orchard Theatre has announced additional stars joining this year's magical family pantomime Cinderella. Performances will run Saturday 12 December 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027.

Musical Theatre star Keith Jack will play Prince Charming, best known for his standout journey on Any Dream Will Do and his acclaimed musical theatre career spanning Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sincerely Mr Toad, and Forever Plaid. With his powerhouse vocals and natural stage charisma, Keith is sure to delight as Cinderella's dashing prince.

Keith said: I am delighted to be appearing at The Orchard Theatre in Dartford this panto season and to be working with the fantastic team at Imagine Theatre. This year feels especially exciting as the theatre reopens its doors, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate than with a spectacular and fun-filled panto season.

Joining him is the hugely popular, multitalented Ben Goffe as Buttons, whose comedic timing and warm rapport with audiences have made him a beloved panto favourite across the UK. Ben's extensive stage and screen credits which include the West End production The Choir of Man as well as working for Disney and Netflix ensure a Buttons full of heart, humour, and mischief.

Ben said: I'm super excited to be back playing Buttons in The Orchard Theatre. I'm also looking forward to working with the brilliant Joe Pasquale over the festive period, we've known each other for a number of years and have already begun working on our comedy routines. It's going to be a fab show so book now before it's too late! 

Adding outrageous glamour and riotous comedy are Gareth Mitchell and Garnon Davies as Cinderella's fabulously wicked stepsisters Phyxie and Connie. Both performers bring a wealth of theatrical experience, razor‑sharp wit, and larger‑than‑life personality, guaranteeing audiences a double act bursting with chaos, colour, and brilliance.

Completing the newly announced cast is the enchanting Vanessa Dumatey as Cinderella's Fairy Godmother. With her soaring vocals and radiant Stage Presence, Vanessa will bring the show's most magical moments to life, from glittering transformations to heart‑warming guidance for Cinderella.

They join the previously announced national treasure Joe Pasquale as Baron Hardup, whose unmistakable comedy style and infectious energy promise to make this year's production one of Dartford's most memorable pantos yet.

Cinderella will be produced by award-winning Imagine Theatre and promises to be the perfect festive treat to experience with all the family. Packed with festive sparkle, laugh-out-loud comedy, show-stopping songs and audience participation galore, Cinderella will be everything you know and love about panto and will feature a stellar supporting cast, spectacular award-winning animated scenery, glittering costumes and mesmerising special effects.

Laura Taylor, Associate Producer for Cinderella said: ‘Imagine Theatre are delighted to be returning to Dartford this year with the ultimate rags to riches tale and it's not only Cinderella who will be getting a wonderful transformation this year, we are so excited to be back in The Orchard Theatre after its makeover. There are very few people in the country that have as much pantomime experience as the fantastic Joe Pasquale so with him heading up the cast alongside a stellar supporting cast it really is set to be a family spectacular. Dartford audiences won't have seen anything quite like this show with its award-winning set design. It is a show full of true pantomime magic.'

Cinderella dreams of a happier life, away from the torment of her wicked stepsisters. When a magical Fairy Godmother appears at her door, Cinderella is transformed and whisked away in a pumpkin coach to the castle to dance the night away with the Prince. But when the clock strikes midnight, she flees – leaving only a glass slipper behind… Will Cinderella find her happy ever after in time?

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Best Scenic Design - Top 3

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2. Soutra Gilmour - Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)

13.1% of votes

3. Scott Pask - Schmigadoon!

11.1% of votes

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