Buxton Opera House has announced the principal cast and full creative team for its 2026 pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, which runs from 4 December 2026 to 2 January 2027.
The festive production will see a host of familiar faces return to the venue, led by Buxton favourite James Holmes, who makes his 11th appearance as dame.
Joining Holmes are Georgia Gallagher and Ross Clifton, both returning to the Opera House stage following appearances in previous productions including Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. They are joined by Catherine Pugh and Jamie Davis-Fletcher, who makes his professional debut after previously appearing in the venue’s 2023 community production of Little Shop of Horrors.
The production is directed by Buxton Opera House CEO Paul Kerryson and produced by Sarah Kell. Tracey Iliffe returns as choreographer, with Richard Atkinson serving as arrangements and musical supervisor and Rickey Long as musical director.
The creative team also includes lighting designer Tom Davis, sound designer Eoin O’Grady, costume designer Abigail Caywood, and Scenic Set Design, who will provide the scenery.
Additional members of the production team include Richard Brookes, Pete Cirillo, Gregor Reid, Caitlin Ravenscroft, Dani White, Helena Foundoukis, Jazz Rose and Meg Jordan, while Andy Brotherton and Johnny Wells complete the live band.
Paul Kerryson said: “There is something truly magical about bringing a cast together where all our principal performers share a history with our stage. This year’s line-up is packed with faces that Buxton audiences already know and love – from James Holmes marking his 11 th year as Dame, to Georgia Gallagher and Ross Clifton reuniting to lead the show, Catherine Pugh bringing her signature villainy after 2024’s Jack and the Beanstalk, and Jamie Davis-Fletcher making his professional debut after leading our 2023 community production of Little Shop of Horrors. Joined by the brilliant creative team behind our recent in-house pantomimes, and backed by a live band, this incredible team is set to deliver a whole heap of panto magic this festive season. We can’t wait!”
When Princess Beauty falls under a wicked curse and into a 100-year slumber, her happily-ever-after appears lost forever. With the help of a handsome prince, a good fairy and plenty of panto mischief, true love’s kiss may yet save the day.
The production is supported by Taylor Emmet Solicitors and sponsored by The Palace Hotel, Buxton.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
