LEGENDARY actor Mickey Rooney has shared the screen with the likes of Judy Garland and Lana Turner during his 80-year career in show business.

But in December he will swap Hollywood for Sunderland to make his pantomime debut, starring alongside Les Dennis and pop singer Michelle Heaton in a production of Cinderella.

Mr Rooney will play Cinderella's father, Baron Hardup. His wife, Jan, will appear as the Fairy Godmother.

The 86-year-old has made more than 200 films and is the holder of an honorary Oscar. He is best remembered in the UK for his 1944 film National Velvet in which he starred with Elizabeth Taylor.

Mr Rooney is currently in the UK touring with his multimedia production, Let's Put On A Show, which played to Darlington Civic Theatre earlier this month.

Cinderella will run at Sunderland Empire from December 8 to January 6.

It is produced by First Family Entertainment, the pantomime company responsible for bringing other American actors such as Henry Winkler to star in pantomime last year.

The company's chief executive, Kevin Wood, said: "Mickey has had an amazing career and has achieved more than most actors we have ever worked with and yet he has still managed to add another string to his bow.

"At the age of 86, I think he is definitely our oldest pantomime debutante.

"This production of Cinderella is so special for the Sunderland Empire as it is celebrating it's 100th birthday this year."

Paul Ryan, general manager at the Sunderland Empire, added: "To secure a global superstar such as Mickey Rooney is a magnificent accolade for both the theatre and the region."

Tickets cost from £7.50 to £20.50 and are available by calling 0870-6021130.

In York, the Theatre Royal has secured an American star of its own to appear in the world premiere of Terms of Endearment, prior to a national tour.

Linda Gray, who won international fame with her portrayal of Sue Ellen in Dallas will play feisty widow Aurora Greenway in the production, which runs from August 24 to September 15.

Tickets cost from £9 to £18 and can be booked by calling 01904-623568.