NEWS: Alexandra Burke to make her panto debut in Manchester this Christmastime.

Alexandra Burke to make her panto debut at Manchester Opera House

Manchester Opera House have today made wishes come true by announcing that their family pantomime adventure, Aladdin, will star Alexandra Burke as The Spirit of The Ring, joined by returning comedian Ben Nickless as Aladdin’s hapless brother Wishee Washee.

Alexandra Burke is truly one of the UK's most distinguishable powerhouse voices, having sold over 5 million records. Her #1 chart-toppers include Bad Boys, Start Without You and Hallelujah. Alexandra has established herself as one of the UK’s most sought-after West End leading ladies having starred in The Bodyguard, Sister Act, Chess, Chicago and is currently The Narrator in Michael Harrison’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat at The London Palladium. Alexandra first rose to fame almost thirteen years ago, winning the fifth series of The X Factor in 2008 while duetting with her idol Beyonce. A firm favourite across both stage and screen, Alexandra reached the final of BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2017 and was crowned ‘Star Baker’ on The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer on Channel 4 earlier this year. Alexandra will make her movie debut in 2022 having just completed filming of the BFI, BBC Film Pretty Red Dress.

Rochdale-born Ben Nickless started his working life playing the comedy clubs in the North West and his career took off in 2006 when he performed his own style of comedy and impressions on the BBC television series Let Me Entertain You alongside Brian Conley and Christine Bleakley, winning his episode. Ben returns to the Opera House panto having played Muddles in Snow White and Buttons in Cinderella.

Aladdin is produced by the world’s biggest pantomime producer, Crossroads Pantomimes and will feature spectacular special effects, live music, beautiful costumes and stunning sets.

Chief Executive of Crossroads Pantomimes, Michael Harrison said:
“I’m absolutely delighted that Alexandra has agreed to join us in panto this year. She’s a first-class performer and her stunning vocals are going to add a whole new dimension to this year’s show. Coupled with the quick-wit of the talented Ben Nickless, Manchester audiences are in for a real treat this Christmas.”

Theatre Director for the Palace and Opera House Theatres, Sheena Wrigley said:
“After having to wait a little longer than usual for the fabulous pantomime to return to the Opera House, this year feels even more special for us all and we cannot wait to see families and friends enjoying the magic once more. There’s already a real buzz in the air and adding a truly special performer like Alexandra to the mix only adds to the excitement for this year – it can’t come quick enough!”

Further casting will be announced later in the year.

Aladdin runs at Manchester Opera House from Saturday 11 December 2021 to Sunday 2 January 2022. Tickets cost from £13 and can be booked at https://www.atgtickets.com/manchester