National Treasure to star as Fairy Godmother in a not to be missed festive spectacular!
This Christmas, pantomime magic meets star power as the curtain rises on what promises to be the most talked-about festive event on the South Coast. From Saturday 6 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026, Cinderella arrives at Bournemouth Pavilion, and with it, a sparkling headline announcement: Melanie Walters, beloved star of the multi-award-winning Gavin & Stacey, will take on the iconic role of the Fairy Godmother in this spectacular new production from UK Productions Ltd.
One of Britain’s most recognisable and cherished television faces, Melanie Walters soared to household-name status as Gwen West – Stacey’s endlessly endearing, omelette-obsessed mother – in the BBC’s BAFTA-winning Gavin & Stacey. A staple of British comedy and an icon of the small screen, her casting is a major theatrical coup that brings extra glitter, charm, and star quality to the Bournemouth stage.
Her announcement marks a thrilling moment for fans of the beloved sitcom and lovers of live theatre alike.
Melanie Walters said:
“Oh, what’s occurring? I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the fabulous cast of Cinderella at Bournemouth Pavilion this year! It’s going to be properly lush – packed with dazzling magic, belly laughs, and festive sparkle. You won’t want to miss this one… get your tickets now before they vanish faster than a pumpkin at midnight!”
Beyond her fame from Gavin & Stacey, Walters brings a formidable breadth of experience across stage and screen. From Holby City and Being Human to Blood Brothers and BBC’s upcoming Death Valley, her versatility and charisma have won critical acclaim and audience affection alike. Her return to pantomime promises a Fairy Godmother performance full of warmth, humour, and theatrical magic.
Martin Dodd, Managing Director and Producer at UK Productions, said:
“We are eggstremely excited to welcome Melanie Walters – everyone’s favourite omelette-loving mum from Gavin & Stacey – to this year’s panto cast. With her sparkling stage presence, comedic flair, and a flick of her wand, she’s set to cast a spell over Bournemouth.
“This production is a full-scale theatrical experience, featuring dazzling visuals, big musical numbers, sophisticated design, and world-class performances. Audiences are in for a treat that exceeds expectations. Book now – this is one show you cannot afford to miss.”
This is Cinderella as you’ve never seen it before – a visual tour-de-force filled with state-of-the-art lighting, sumptuous costumes, and breathtaking set pieces. Penned by one of the UK’s leading pantomime writers, Jon Monie, the production blends beloved tradition with fresh energy and sensational production values. Every element – from choreography to comedy – is dialled up to maximum sparkle.
Whether it’s your annual festive outing or your child’s first theatre memory, this Cinderella promises laughter, wonder, and gasp-out-loud spectacle at every turn.
On behalf of BH Live, Steve Turner, Director of Venues, said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to be hosting this year’s pantomime, Cinderella, at Bournemouth Pavilion. As a charitable organisation, our mission is to bring people together and create accessible cultural experiences for all. Pantomime is such a joyful and inclusive tradition – it invites laughter, participation, and a real sense of community spirit.
“Panto is often a child’s first encounter with the magic of live theatre too – and that first spark of wonder is something we cherish and want to share with as many families as possible. Whether it’s your very first pantomime, you’re returning after a few years, or you come back every season, we’d love to welcome you to experience the magic of Cinderella.
“Events like this not only help us raise essential funds but also open our doors to families who might not otherwise engage with theatre. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase local talent alongside some well-known stars, support our charitable work, and ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can enjoy the magic of live performance.”
Tickets start from just £19 for selected performances. Early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. This is one fairytale that won’t wait until midnight.
This year’s panto production highlights include:
- A stellar cast! Melanie Walters (Gavin & Stacey) announced as the Fairy Godmother. This year’s production will also feature a variety of local talent – including singers and dancers. Even more exciting cast announcements to follow soon.
- A relaxed performance on Thursday 16 December 2025, open to everyone and great for those who prefer a gentler panto experience.
- Ice creams for school groups of 20+ plus a limited number of funded tickets for pupils on low income, thanks to the generosity of previous panto audiences (T&Cs apply).
- Group discounts available (10+, 20+, 30+).
- Concessions for under-16s on selected performances.
From curtain-up to the final bow, Cinderella promises pure magic, perfect for families, friends, and fairytale fans of all ages. With spectacular staging, unforgettable performances, and laugh-out-loud moments, this is not just a show — it’s your ticket to an unforgettable festive tradition.
Tickets are on sale now at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.
For group bookings or school visits (including subsidised tickets for eligible schools), contact: groupsales@bhlive.org.uk
-ENDS-
Notes to Editors:
Melanie Walters – Bio
Melanie is best known for her role as Gwen West in the BAFTA wining series Gavin and Stacey for the BBC which had its finale last Christmas.
Her long list of television appearances include: DEATH VALLEY (BBC 1); FATHER BROWN (BBC); JERK (BBC 3); BIFF & CHIP 3 series (CBBC); THE SNOW SPIDER (Leopard Productions for BBC); My PETSAURUS (CBBC); PITCHING IN (BBC); THE COLLECTION (Amazon Prime); DOC MARTIN (ITV); UNDER MILK WOOD (BBC); BEING HUMAN (BBC); GAVIN and STACEY 3 series and 3 Christmas Specials (BBC); STELLA (Tidy Productions); HOLLYOAKS (Lime Pictures); ANNUALLY RETENTIVE (Jones the Film); BELONGING, HOLBY CITY, DIRTY WORK, JACK of HEARTS, BACK UP, DANGERFIELD, THE HEALER, TENDER LOVING CARE, KILLING ME SOFTLY, JACK of HEARTS, RUN FOR THE LIFEBOAT, BROKEN GLASS, DISTRICT NURSE (all for the BBC); SECRETS of the CAVES (Nant Productions); TELL TALE, WE ARE SEVEN, BALLROOM, THE BILL (all for ITV)
Her most notable theatre credits include: ‘WHAT’S NEW PUSSYCAT’ (Birmingham Rep); THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST (Theatr Clwyd), BEFORE I LEAVE (National Theatre Wales) THE ILIAD (National Theatre Wales); THE RIVALS, SAILOR BEWARE (Chester Gateway); TED’S CREATURES, AN EVENING WITH GARY LINEKER and BLOOD BROTHERS ( Sherman Theatre); MERCHANT OF VENICE (Aberystwyth Arts); BLUE REMEMBERED HILLS (Theatr Clwyd); CANTERBURY TALES, RAPE OF THE FAIR COUNTRY and EDUCATING RITA (Swansea Grand); SHADOW OF A GUNMAN, CANDIDE (London); SLEEPING BEAUTY (UK Productions); CINDERELLA (UK Productions and Hiss and Boo Productions); SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARVES; JACK AND THE BEANSTALK; PETER PAN; BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (UK Productions)
Film Credits include: LA CHA CHA (La Cha Cha Films); SAVE THE CINEMA ( Sky Movies); SAY MY NAME (SMN Productions); WATCHER IN THE WOODS (Hart Productions); BURN BURN BURN (Burn Productions Ltd); HIGH TIDE (Long Arm Films); ANOTHER ME (Fox International Productions); RESISTANCE (Big Rich Films); SUBMARINE (Warp Productions); BREEDERS (Peakviewing Films).
Other film credits include: THE DEAD DOG (The Moriae Films); CARING FOR THE RECENTLY DECEASED (Stick & Rudder Films); EX LIBRIS (Long Arm Films); SLIM CHANCE (Pooka Films).
Melanie has many radio credits to her name. Her favourite plays include: LOBBY LUD, CANCER WARD and WHO SHOT SHELLEY? All for Radio 4.
She has just completed filming on the second series of Death Valley for the BBC to be screened 2026 and is delighted to be back here in Bournemouth playing Fairy Godmother.
@MelWalters01
For more information about BH Live please contact:
Daisy Saunders, PR & Communications Executive
E: press.office@bhlive.org.uk
About BH Live
Champions of community engagement, health and wellness across Dorset, Hampshire, and London
BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise, is a leading operator of sports and leisure centres, theatres, and event venues. Our vision is to create sustainable and inspiring opportunities, deliver great experiences for our communities, and improve health and well-being.
With a strong commitment to accessibility and community engagement, BH Live continues to enhance the quality of people’s lives, health and wellbeing in the communities it serves.
BH Live was established in 2010. Local authority partners include BCP Council, Portsmouth City Council and Croydon Council.
We are at the heart of the UK’s growing social economy. Together with our partners we are helping to change lives and make a positive impact in the community.
For more visit bhlive.org.uk.
Get social with us:
LinkedIn – BH Live
Facebook – @SocialEnterpriseBHLive
Instagram @bhliveuk
BH Live is a leisure and cultural trust, established in 2010 as a ‘non profit distributing organisation’ (NPDO) for public benefit to promote participation in leisure and cultural events. BH Live is a Company Limited by Guarantee and Registered Charity. Charity No: 1138311. Company No: 07092112. VAT Reg No: 108 2248 37. BH Live (Enterprises) Ltd, is a Private Company Limited by Shares and a wholly owned subsidiary of BH Live. Company No: 07175626. VAT Reg No: 108 2248 37. Registered Office: Bournemouth International Centre, Exeter Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5BH. Registered in England and Wales.
About Bournemouth Pavilion
Bournemouth Pavilion is operated by the registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
This Grade II listed venue opened in March 1929. It has a 1,500-seat theatre and full-sized ballroom. The venue hosts a year-round diverse programme of events and entertainment such as musicals, opera, ballet, pantomime, comedy, dances and fashion shows. Gala dinners, banquets, receptions, fairs, corporate presentations, product launches, conferences and exhibitions also feature.
Bournemouth Pavilion is home to Pavilion Dance South West and the Pavilion at AUB rehearsal and teaching space for the Arts University Bournemouth.
Bournemouth Pavilion’s South Terrace operates throughout the spring and summer season, serving a delicious range of hot and cold drinks, grab-and-go items, and hot food from pop-up stalls and container bars. The Terrace Bistro serves a seasonal menu, offering an indoor and alfresco dining experience.
- Buy tickets online at co.uk
- Buy tickets by phone 0300 500 0595
- In person from box office – see website for opening times.
For call charges, opening times and more visit bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.
Get social with us:
Facebook, Instagram – @BournemouthPavilion
UK Productions
Established in 1995, UK Productions is responsible for over 200 musical and drama productions nationally, internationally, in the West End and on Broadway. Producing credits include The Beekeeper of Aleppo, The Kite Runner, Legally Blonde – the Musical, 42nd Street, Oklahoma!, Singin’ in the Rain, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, South Pacific, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Jekyll & Hyde – the Musical, Carousel, Fiddler on the Roof, Murdered to Death, Anything Goes, The Pirates of Penzance, and Barnum.
UKP are renowned pantomime producers and have productions the length and breadth of the country. During Christmas 2025/26 they will have 11 productions in number 1 theatres. The company operate a busy set and costume production and hire business, supplying musicals, plays and pantomime sets, props and costumes to commercial and amateur producers nationally and internationally. https://www.ukproductions.co.uk/