Catford Broadway Theatre: Sleeping Beauty at Christmas

Building on the success of 2023's Jack and the Beanstalk, the new pantomime play was written and directed by pantomime legend Susie McKenna and will run at the Broadway Theatre from December 4 through New Year's Eve.

This year's modern remix, a gothic fairytale with a 21st century twist, takes audiences to the magical kingdoms of Lewishtonia and Westminsteria.

The cast includes Roshani Abbey as Sleeping Beauty Tahlia, Justin Brett as lady nanny Nora and Lisa Davina Phillip as villain Carabosse.

Returning stars include Wayne Rollins, Durone Stokes and Ben Fox.

With many of this year's performers having a connection to the area, the show is truly rooted in Lewisham and conveys a strong sense of place and belonging.

Both Durone Stokes and Lisa Hailing were born at Lewisham Hospital.

Durone said: “This theatre was the first stage I ever performed on. As a child, I did all the Saturday shows here at school.

“I went to a variety show with my mother and when I saw an actor on stage playing the prince in Cinderella, the seed was planted.

“So I have a real connection to Broadway theater, it's like a total homecoming.”

Imbued with Susie's signature slapstick comedy style, colorful characters and political wit, Sleeping Beauty is guaranteed to resonate with today's audiences and bring new relevance to this well-known story.

The production mixes tracks with original music to take audiences on a journey through old and new music favorites while conveying a message of inclusivity and unity rather than division.

Susie said: “It's so wonderful to be returning to the Broadway Theatre with so many of last year's cast and creative team, as well as our fantastic new additions to the family. I'm looking forward to celebrating Lewisham again and all it has to offer, including the diverse audience who are always up for a party.”

The production will also feature over 50 costumes designed by mime costume designer Lotte Collett.

The production is committed to offering at least 600 £1 tickets to local community groups.

This year also marks the return of the Talent Pipeline programme, which aims to promote and advance the careers of global majority and/or working class talent in theatre.

As part of the programme, candidates are mentored by West End professionals and given paid work experience on the production, using pantomime as a fundamental training ground.

Internships are available in departments such as lighting, sound, costume, music and production, providing a much-needed foot in the door in a climate where theatre is becoming increasingly inaccessible as a career path.

Cllr Edison Huynh, Lewisham Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Communities, said: “We are delighted to welcome our panto partners Joy Productions and Susie McKenna to Broadway for a second year.

“This new production of Sleeping Beauty is a fresh take on a classic fairytale, written specifically for and to celebrate the local community.

“After the success of Jack and the Beanstalk last year, we know it will come with an extra dose of festive magic.

“Panto is such an important Christmas tradition in Lewisham. We love the way it brings residents of all ages together to share the joy of live performance. We hope as many people as possible from across the borough will come and join us on Broadway to experience a fantastic, vibrant and high quality production.”