Soap star skates into town panto role

The star of this year’s Newark Palace Theatre pantomime, Aladdin, has been revealed.

Hayley Tamaddon will play So Shi, the Princess’s comedy sidekick, in the production.

She is best known for playing Del Dingle in Emmerdale and Andrea Beckett in Coronation Street as well as winning series five of ITV’s Dancing On Ice.

On stage, she has worked extensively in musical theatre in shows such as Thoroughly Modern Millie, Chicago, A Chorus Line and Mamma Mia.

She said she was delighted to be returning to the stage in pantomime.

“I absolutely love appearing in pantomime — it’s such a special time of year,” she said.

“I can’t wait to appear in this production of Aladdin and to be in Newark this Christmas.”

Joining Hayley for his third Newark pantomime will be Tim Freeman as Widow Twankey.

He is promising another array of fabulous frocks.

Aladdin will feature all of the magic ingredients of a pantomime as it tells the rags-to-riches story of a poor son of a laundress who has big dreams.

Will evil Abanazar thwart the course of true love after Aladdin and the Princess meet, or will the Genie help Aladdin on his quest?

The business manager for heritage, culture and visitors, Carys Coulton Jones, said: “With 5,000 tickets for Aladdin sold already, it seems Newark can’t wait for its next instalment of panto fun.

“We are thrilled to be bringing Hayley Tamaddon to the Palace this year, and to be welcoming back Tim Freeman.”

Aladdin will run at the Palace from December 7 to 31.