De Montfort Hall has unveiled a glittering all-star cast for this year’s festive pantomime, Dick Whittington, promising a magical adventure for audiences in Leicester.
BBC Radio 2’s Richie Anderson will make his pantomime debut as Alderman Fitzwarren. Known for his work on Zoe Ball’s breakfast show and his own Sunday night programme, Richie is also a familiar face from Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity MasterChef, and The One Show.
“I’m so excited to be doing my first ever panto at De Montfort Hall in Leicester! As a Midlands boy it had to be in this wonderful part of the world. I spent a lot of time here in 2023 for Radio 2 in the park so can’t wait to be back!” said Richie.
Joining him as Fairy Bowbells is Suzanne Shaw, who rose to fame with pop group Hear’Say and has since starred in Emmerdale, Dancing on Ice, and West End hits including Chicago and The Rocky Horror Show.
“I love panto and couldn’t be happier to be joining this fabulous cast at De Montfort Hall. I have heard great things about the audiences and the venue and can’t wait to join everyone in the madness and mayhem! We are going to have a great time,” said Suzanne.
CBeebies star Rebecca Keatley will play Alice Fitzwarren. Known for Let’s Play and her work in the CBeebies House, Rebecca brings a wealth of stage experience to the role.
“I’m thrilled to say that I’ll be joining an incredible cast at the wonderful De Montfort Hall this year. I’ve fond memories of taking to the stage as the Snow Queen in Leicester in 2017, so it’s great to be back but this time in a less icy role as I take on the part of Alice Fitzwarren. I’m so excited to be involved in what is set to be a truly magical show. Bring on the laughter, joy and wow factor, in my opinion there’s no better way to spend the festive season,” she said.
Award-winning beatboxer Hobbit (Jack Hobbs) will take on the role of Tommy the Cat. A two-time UK Loopstation Champion and voice of Juke in The Amazing World of Gumball, Hobbit brings a unique vocal flair to the production.
They join the previously announced Jarred Christmas and Jack Ballard in this family-friendly production of Dick Whittington, produced by Imagine Theatre.
Audiences can expect hilarious jokes, catchy songs, and plenty of festive cheer as Dick and his trusty cat journey to London to seek their fortune, battle King Rat, and aim to become Lord Mayor.
Dick Whittington runs at De Montfort Hall from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
