Star-studded cast of Royal & Derngate’s 2026 pantomime brought early touch of Christmas to Northampton

It was on Tuesday June 9 when the cast came together for the first time to celebrate what is promised to be a spectacular family show and to meet the team where they will spend their festive period.

Television legend Steve McFadden, who plays the iconic role of Phil Mitchell in Eastenders, is heading up the cast as the boo-able baddie Grumblewart. He will be joined by children’s television star Dani Harmer as Fairy Cupid, best known for her role as Tracy Beaker.

Steve has been on our screens as Phil Mitchell for more than 36 years and has led many high-profile storylines, receiving accolades including the British Soap Award for Outstanding Achievement and the National Television Award for Outstanding Serial Performance in 2025.

BAFTA award-winning Dani played the title role in CBBC’s The Story of Tracy Beaker, Tracy Beaker Returns, My Mum Tracy Beaker and The Beaker Girls, alongside many other screen credits.

Dani reached the final of Strictly Come Dancing in 2013 and as well as celebrating her 30th year in panto this year, her stage appearances include playing Janet in the 40th anniversary tour of The Rocky Horror Show musical.

Also at the launch was veteran panto dame Sam Rabone, who will be appearing as Madame Bellie Fillop, as well as taking on the role of co-director. Dave Bibby is returning as Phillipe Fillop, having previously played Buttons in the Royal & Derngate’s Cinderella two years ago.

The principal cast will be completed by Georgia Brierley-Smith as Belle, Christian Southway as the Beast and Prince Henri, and US actor Sage Spiker making his UK panto debut as Danton.

Building on the success of last year’s smash hit The All New Adventures of Peter Pan and 2024’s Cinderella, which won for best choreography at the UK Pantomime Awards, the Royal & Derngate is pleased to continue its ongoing partnership with pantomime producers Evolution Productions.

The family-run business, led by husband and wife Paul Hendy and Emily Wood, is delighted to have won pantomime of the year at the UK Pantomime Awards in 2017, 2018, 2020, 2022 and 2025.

Holly Gladwell, the Royal & Derngate’s acting CEO, said: “It’s great to have the chance to meet some of this year’s panto cast. We’ve got a fantastic company lined up for Beauty and the Beast and I can’t wait to welcome everyone back to start rehearsals in November.

“Christmas is such a wonderful time of year at the theatre, when so many wonderful memories are made and some children get their very first experience of live performance.”

Written by Paul Hendy and co-directed by Emily Wood, Beauty and the Beast promises to be spectacular, top quality entertainment with lavish sets, hilarious jokes and fun for all the family.

Emily added: “We’re thrilled to have Steve McFadden and Dani Harmer heading up this brilliant cast. Two beloved TV icons together in a pantomime that promises to be our most spectacular and hilarious yet. We can’t wait to share this magical show with the families of Northampton this festive season.”

Beauty and the Beast will run from Friday, December 4 to Thursday, December 31, with discounts available for concessions, groups, schools and members. Pre-show afternoon teas will also be available for selected performances.

A range of access-enhanced performances will be on offer, including captioned, audio described, BSL-interpreted and relaxed shows.

For more information and to secure your tickets, call the Box Office on 01604 624811 or visit the Royal & Derngate’s website here.