Hackney Empire Cinderella panto cast announced for 2025

The theatre’s production of Cinderella will run from November 22 to December 31 and is directed by Clive Rowe.

This follows the success from last year's panto 'Dick Whittington and his Cat'. (Image: Hackney Empire) The first cast announcement includes Kat B and George Heyworth, who will play the Ugly Sisters.

Jo Hemmant, executive director at Hackney Empire, said: "We're thrilled to announce the first cast members for this year's pantomime Cinderella, which will be the final pantomime I'm producing as executive director at Hackney Empire.

George Heyworth is one half of the duo. (Image: Perou) "Having Hackney gold Kat B and George Heyworth on board as our Ugly Sisters, alongside our esteemed patron and director for this year Clive Rowe, means we're guaranteed to bring you all another joyous pantomime in Hackney this festive season.

"Stay tuned for more announcements, coming in September."

Kat B is a seasoned comedian, presenter, and actor who has appeared in 20 Hackney Empire pantomimes.

He has also featured in numerous productions at Theatre Royal Stratford East, including Lorca’s The Public and The Dragon Can’t Dance, and has hosted variety nights and school tours across the UK.

Kat B will perform alongside George Heyworth. Kat has been involved in 20 Hackney Empire pantos. (Image: Perou) George Heyworth is best known as one half of the musical duo Bourgeois & Maurice with Liv Morris.

Their pop-satire cabaret has been performed at venues including the Royal Academy of Arts, Southbank Centre, and Sadler's Wells, with international tours in the US, Australia, and Singapore.

George previously appeared in Hackney Empire’s 2023 pantomime Aladdin.

Cinderella promises all the traditional pantomime elements, from audience participation and musical numbers to extravagant costumes and comedy.

The classic rags-to-riches story follows Cinderella as she dreams of a better life away from her wicked stepmother and stepsisters.

With the help of a fairy godmother, a magical invitation, and a pair of glass slippers, she’s given the chance to go to the ball.

Further casting and creative team details will be announced in early autumn.

Cinderella follows the theatre’s 2024 panto, Dick Whittington and His Cat.

Tickets are available now through the Hackney Empire website via https://www.hackneyempire.co.uk/events/cinderella or by calling the box office on 02089852424.