Casting: Sleeping Beauty at Sunderland Empire

 

🎭 Jordan Lee Davies to Bring Villainy and Vocals to Sleeping Beauty at Sunderland Empire

This Christmas, Sunderland Empire will once again dazzle audiences with its spectacular pantomime offering, Sleeping Beauty — and this year’s cast promises to pack a powerful punch of talent, laughs, and sheer theatrical magic.

Taking on the role of the fiendish villain Carabosse is West End favourite Jordan Lee Davies, best known for his standout performances in The Book of Mormon, Bat Out of Hell, and Chicago. Having recently toured the UK as Mary Sunshine in the latter, Davies is no stranger to commanding a stage — and this time, he’s ready to embrace the boos and bring a wicked flair to Wearside.

“I am so excited to return to the Sunderland Empire after my visits with The Book Of Mormon and Chicago,” said Davies. “The audiences are INCREDIBLE and I cannot wait to be booed once again. Pass me the horns and the red lippy, I’m ready!”

Jordan Lee Davies

Joining Davies is a stellar supporting cast. Laura Main, beloved for her long-running role as Shelagh Turner in Call the Midwife, returns to pantomime as the benevolent Fairy Snowfall. Meanwhile, Channel 5 Milkshake! star David Ribi takes up the mantle of Prince Vincent, bringing charm and energy to the classic fairy tale hero.

Of course, no Sunderland pantomime would be complete without the region’s comedy favourites, and back by popular demand for a sixth year are the fabulous Miss Rory (Boulevard) as Rorina the Cleaner and the ever-quick Tom Whalley as Vesta the Jester. Expect sharp wit, cheeky banter, and plenty of hilarious North East flavour.

Producer Martin Dodd couldn’t be more excited:

“Hold onto your tiaras, Sunderland! The wickedly wonderful Jordan Lee Davies is flying into the Empire as the deliciously dreadful Carabosse – and he’s bringing more drama than a Tyne-Wear derby! With killer vocals, a wardrobe to die for, and enough sass to stop time itself, Jordan’s set to give Sleeping Beauty a wake-up call she won’t forget.”

A Classic Tale with a Glamorous Twist

The production tells the timeless tale of Princess Aurora, cursed by the evil Carabosse on her 18th birthday and doomed to sleep for a hundred years—unless true love’s kiss can break the spell. With the help of Fairy Snowfall and a few familiar faces, the race is on to rescue the sleeping princess before it’s too late.

Expect dazzling costumes, spectacular sets, top musical numbers, magical special effects, and enough laughs to keep the whole family thoroughly entertained.

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🎟️ Sleeping Beauty
📍 Sunderland Empire
📅 12 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
🎫 Tickets from £15 at ATGTickets.com/Sunderland
(*A £3.95 transaction fee applies to online bookings.)