Photo Flash: Casting Announced For ALADDIN at Hackney Empire - Get a First Look!

Hackney Empire presents Aladdin, its landmark 20th anniversary Christmas pantomime from writer and director Susie McKenna. Gemma Sutton (Gypsy, The Rink) takes on the title role and will be joined byJulie Yammanee (Spamilton, Here Lies Love) as Princess Ling Mai and Empire regular Kat B as Genie of the Lamp. As previously announced, Hackney Empire's Olivier Award-winning Grande Dame of pantomime Clive Rowe will be making his Hackney comeback in the role of Widow Twankey. Last seen in 2015, Aladdin will mark Rowe's 12th panto with the venue. There will also be a Hackney homecoming for Olivier Award nominated actress, television star and comedian Tameka Empson (EastEnders) who will return to play The Empress in her sixth Empire panto and following her last stage appearance 9 years ago.

The full cast includes Empire stalwarts Tony Timberlake as Abanaza and Tony Whittle as Sergeant Dumplin', Natasha Lewis as Genie of the Ring, Alim Jayda as Dishi, Michael Lin as Constable Aki and Ollie Corbett, Jonathan Norman, Saori Oda, Jacqui Sanchez,Monica Swayne and Dale White in the ensemble. The production will also feature Sharon D Clarke as the voice of Gaia, The Goddess of Light.

Aladdin will once again be written and directed by Susie McKenna with original music by Steven Edis, bringing a glittering show packed with magical fun, song, dance, slapstick comedy and audience participation for all the family. Susie McKenna and Steven Edis will mark two decades at the helm of the now legendary Hackney Empire panto which has grown to become an annual highlight and a champion for culture and community in the East End.

In the Far East End, on the island kingdom of Ha Ka Ney, young Aladdin dreams of finding love and making his fortune. When he discovers an enchanted lamp and meets a mysterious genie, it looks like all his wishes are about to come true - with the help of tap-dancing pandas and his larger-than-life mum, can he win the hand of his Princess or will an evil magician, some madcapped policemen and a very large pile of laundry stand in his way?

Get a first look at the cast below!