LORRAINE Crosby, who duetted with Meat Loaf on a number one hit single, is starring in panto this year.

The North-East singer songwriter, who was the female vocalist on the 1993 hit I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That), is appearing at the Empire Theatre in Consett.

The 55-year-old will play the evil Maleficent in this year’s production of Sleeping Beauty, which runs from Friday, December 2 to Saturday, December 31.

Ms Crosby is returning to the stage after her role as the Wicked Queen in Snow White in 2013.

She said: “I can’t wait to be back on stage at the Empire and I’m really looking forward to being part of such a brilliant and talented cast this year.”

The pantomime is produced and directed by Leah Bell, who is working with Leisureworks, for the fifth-year running, and plays Nurse Nit-Wit.

She said: “Our pantomimes are always full of surprises and we’ve got plenty in store for this year’s production. All I’m saying is, if you don’t like getting wet…stay away from the front.”

Tickets are £15 full, £13 concession with group and family discounts available. To book, call 01207-218171 or book online at www.leisureworks.net