THE cast has been announced for a popular pantomime.

The Empire Theatre in Consett has revealed who will be in the Christmas production of Cinderella, which runs from December 2-31.

Producer and director Leah Bell, who plays Bellie Buttons, said: “Every year the crowds seem to get bigger and bigger and we always try to bring plenty of new surprises to the production.”

North-East singer songwriter Lorraine Crosby, the female vocalist on Meat Loaf’s 1993 hit single ‘I’d Do Anything For Love’ is returning after her role as the Evil Queen in Snow White in 2013 and as Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty last year.

Britain’s Got Talent’s hip-hop breakdancing duo Bionik Funk are back together as energetic characters Sir Justin Belieber and Sir Dustin Retriever.

Jason Jones will play the colourful Lord Chancellor Daniel Dante Dandini.

Newcomers to the Consett stage include accomplished North-East actor and musician James De Lauch Hay who will play Prince Bruno of Mars and Medomsley.

Andy Power-Tate and Gareth Arthurs, also known as comedy double act ‘Tickled Trout’, are appearing as the ugly sisters Britney and Whitney Hard-Up.

Other cast members include Harriet Povey as the Fairy Godmother, Courtney Veale as Cinderella, Glen Richard Townsend as Master Billy Buttons, with Anna Bartle and Ellie Caile as Miss Molly and Miss Polly.

Prices are £16 full, £14 concession with group, family and school discounts available. To book call the box office on 01207-218-171 or book online at www.leisureworks.net