James Holmes and Kelsey-Beth Crossley make Buxton Opera House debut in panto

This year’s pantomime at Buxton Opera House brings together two well-known TV actors who have never previously performed at the venue.

Aladdin stars James Holmes, who plays Widow Twankey. He will be familiar to viewers as camp restaurant owner Clive Evans in the award-winning comedy series Miranda.

Also starring is Kelsey-Beth Crossley, who will take the role of Princess Jasmine. Best known for playing the character of Scarlett Nicholls in Emmerdale for five years, Kelsey also appeared on the BBC’s popular singing competition The Voice last year.

James has previously worked as a stand up comedian and is thrilled to be playing Dame for the first time. He says: “I’ve always wanted to do panto – it’s like a rite of passage – and I’ve been looking at iconic Coronation Street characters like Betty Turpin for inspiration.”

Kelsey-Beth admits that she loves panto so much she always gets the ‘Panto Blues’ in January: “I love the fact that the cast has as much fun as the audience during the show. I have a brilliant time when I’m in panto.”

Aladdin runs from December 12 to January 2. Tickets are currently on sale from £17.50 - £22.50. To buy tickets or for more information call 01298 72190 or book online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk