The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre has announced full casting for its 2026 pantomime, Cinderella, which runs from 14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.
Written by Joel Horwood, whose previous Lyric panto Aladdin became a smash hit in 2016, and directed by Robin Belfield, the production promises the venue’s trademark mix of comedy, music and festive spectacle.
The newly announced cast includes Donna Berlin as Suella, Chrissie Bhima as Cinderella, Ashh Blackwood as Buttons, Colin Burnicle as Muruduth/Fairy Kween, Lauryn Redding as Mikayla/Dandini and Durone Stokes as Prince M. Charming.
Completing the company are ensemble performers Sameer Dhanjee, Ellie Seaton and Liza Stevenson.
Joining Horwood and Belfield on the creative team are set and costume designer Janet Bird, lighting designer Sally Ferguson, composer Corin Buckeridge, sound designer Holly Khan, choreographer Georgina Lamb, casting director Richard Johnston and musical director Ashton Moore.
This fresh take on the classic fairy tale follows Cinderella as she struggles under the rule of her evil captor Suella and her misguided sisters. When the kingdom’s prince must find a wife before midnight, a chance encounter, fairy magic and a pair of glass slippers could change everything.
Audiences can expect show-stopping songs, big laughs and the Lyric’s distinctive spin on one of the world’s best-loved stories.
Rachel O’Riordan, Artistic Director of the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, said: “Panto is such a joyous part of the Lyric’s annual programme, and something we’re so excited to bring to our West London community each year. We’re delighted to welcome back writer Joel Horwood for Cinderella, our 2026 panto, a decade on from his smash hit Aladdin at the Lyric in 2016. With Robin Belfield directing in his Lyric debut, audiences should expect a joyful, hilarious and heartwarming celebration of community and festive cheer. Alongside Cinderella, I’m thrilled that family classic Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas is celebrating its fifteenth anniversary at the Lyric this year to brighten up our stages this festive season.”
Alongside Cinderella, the Lyric will also welcome back Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas for its fifteenth year. Co-produced with Pins & Needles Productions, the family favourite will run in the Lyric Studio from 18 November to 27 December 2026.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
