BBC Radio 2 presenter and television favourite Vernon Kay is officially returning to the pantomime stage this Christmas, starring as Billy in Sleeping Beauty at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley. The festive production will run from December 5, 2026, through to January 3, 2027, bringing a mix of comedy, music, and traditional family entertainment to the South East.
Kay takes on the comedy role following his critically acclaimed pantomime debut in 2023 at the Wycombe Swan. He starred as Dandini in Cinderella and won the Best Newcomer title at the UK Pantomime Awards. He also later appeared in Aladdin and hosted the 2026 UK Pantomime Awards.
Excitement Builds for Bromley Panto Debut
Speaking about his upcoming festive run, Vernon Kay shared his enthusiasm for returning to the stage:
Once you’ve caught the panto bug, there’s no going back! I absolutely loved my time in High Wycombe, so when the chance came to head to Bromley this Christmas it was an easy ‘yes’. I love the madness of panto – the singing, the laughs, the audience shouting back at you, and seeing families make Christmas memories together. I’m already counting down the days and promise we’ll have plenty of fun. Oh yes we will!
Churchill Theatre Director Lorna Strawson also welcomed the announcement, highlighting the energy the broadcaster will bring to the venue:
We are beyond thrilled to share that the fabulous Vernon Kay will be making his Bromley Panto debut this year in Sleeping Beauty. His glittering stage presence and dazzling smile will add even more sparkle to an already magical show. We can’t wait for everyone in the land of Bromley to be laughing at his cheeky jokes and delighting in his high energy panto performances!
Star-Studded Cast and Production Details
Produced by the award-winning Imagine Theatre, the 2026 staging of Sleeping Beauty features a stellar line-up of West End performers alongside Kay. Andrew Agnew, known as PC Plum from Balamory, joins the cast as Dame Bella More. They are joined by Rebekah Lowings as Carabosse, James Bisp as Prince Stephen, Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli as Fairy Florence, and Sophie Naglik as Princess Aurora.
The production features special effects supplied by Burnt Toast FX, alongside dazzling costumes and spectacular scenery. Stagecoach Performing Arts serves as the official production sponsor. Producers noted that there will not be a Junior Ensemble for the 2026/27 run.
Show Information and Accessibility
Organisers have released key details for families planning to attend the seasonal run:
- Age Suitability: Recommended for ages 3 and up.
- Running Time: Approximately 125 minutes, including a 20-minute interval.
- Accessible Performances: BSL-interpreted, audio-described, captioned, and relaxed performances are scheduled throughout the season.
- Ticketing: Tickets are available directly through the Churchill Theatre box office via Trafalgar Tickets.
The timeless fairytale follows Princess Beauty after she falls victim to the wicked fairy Carabosse’s curse, sending her into an enchanted sleep. Audiences can expect a classic battle between the forces of good and evil as the cast works to discover whether true love, courage, and laughter can save the day.
