The Hippodrome’s festive extravaganza not only marks the first pantomime at the theatre since it reopened its doors, but also Jason Donovan’s panto debut.
The cast of 2022
The UK’s biggest regional panto makes its big stage return next month, telling the tale of Dame Betty Barnum and her daughter Goldilocks who, with the help of three lovable bears, battle to save their Big Top circus from the grip of the Evil Ringmaster.
After a year’s absence, it’s the first circus-themed pantomime at the Hippodrome for 24 years and features sets and costumes direct from The London Palladium. Australian soap legend, singer and much-loved personality Jason Donavon will be making his panto debut as the Evil Ringmaster; starring alongside Matt Slack, Doreen Tipton (better known as YouTube sensation Queen of the Black Country), Andrew Ryan, Alexia McIntosh and Samantha Dorrance.
The undisputed Queen of the Black Country
Alongside the headline cast, there’s also a spectacular line-up of circus acts, including the magnificent magician Phil Hitchcock, awe-inspiring motorcycle act Peter Pavlov and The Globe of Speed, the Death-Defying Gemini Sisters and international artist Pierre Marchand.
Producer and Director Michael Harrison, Chief Executive of Crossroads Pantomimes, explains: “Audiences are going to truly love Goldilocks and the Three Bears. It will incorporate the very best of the production I created for the sell-out London Palladium panto in 2019, alongside lots of new material created especially for our Birmingham cast and audience. I am really delighted to be announcing so many returning cast alongside the addition of local Midlands’s talent in the form of Alexia and Samantha.”
The hilarious Matt Slack
In a production packed full of jaw-dropping special effects and circus skills, they’ll be a host of stunning song and dance routines and the usual hallmarks of Hippodrome hilarity.
Jason Donovan said: “I’m absolutely honoured to have been asked to take part in the Hippodrome panto, and to work with Michael Harrison once again is going to be a lot of fun. As one of the biggest and best pantomimes in the country I cannot wait to get started with Matt Slack and the team.”
