Powerhouse princess unveiled for Bournemouth Pavilion’s spectacular Christmas panto

Britain’s Got Talent sensation Kristel Herrera joins the cast of Aladdin!

The magic is building at Bournemouth Pavilion, as this year’s spectacular Christmas pantomime Aladdin reveals another sensational name for its stellar festive line-up.

Fresh from captivating audiences on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent, powerhouse vocalist Kristel Herrera will step into the spotlight as the beautiful Princess Jasmine, bringing her breathtaking voice, warmth and undeniable star quality to one of pantomime’s most-loved fairy-tale roles.

For generations, pantomime has been the Christmas outing families treasure together: grandparents treating grandchildren, parents reliving the excitement they felt as children, and little ones discovering the thrill of live theatre for the very first time. It is laughter, music, magic, sweets in the interval, boos for the villain, cheers for the hero and memories that last long after the decorations have come down.

This Christmas, that tradition comes dazzlingly to life at Bournemouth Pavilion, as Aladdin promises a spectacular festive adventure packed with comedy, colour, music, mischief and all the magic of a truly unforgettable family night out.

Kristel won hearts with her breathtaking Britain’s Got Talent audition, leaving audiences and judges spellbound with her phenomenal vocals and stage presence. Now she is ready to bring that same sparkle to Bournemouth, starring as Princess Jasmine in a performance set to be full of charm, heart and showstopping musical moments.

Kristel joins a brilliant cast led by Coronation Street villain James Cartwright as the wicked Abanazar. Bringing the festive fun and chaos is the fantastic Noel Brodie as Wishee Washee, with Jamie Steen starring as the wonderfully outrageous Widow Twankey.

Together, they will bring one of the greatest pantomime adventures to life in a production bursting with laughter, spectacle, songs, silliness and festive joy.

With a powerhouse princess, a villain audiences will love to boo, and a cast ready to deliver pure Christmas magic, Aladdin is set to be one of Bournemouth’s biggest family events of the festive season.

Kristel said; 

Inspiring others has always been at the very heart of everything I do, so to have the opportunity to be part of a child’s very first experience of live theatre is incredibly special and deeply moving. There’s nothing quite like seeing young faces light up with wonder, excitement and pure magic, and it’s a real privilege to help create those unforgettable memories. If I can inspire even one child to dream big, believe in themselves and fall in love with the magic of theatre, then that truly means the world to me.”

Following her appearance on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent 2026, Kristel Herrera captured the nation’s attention on her journey to the live semi-finals. Her performances quickly gained traction online, reaching millions of viewers and earning widespread praise. Showcasing a strong vocal range, Kristel impressed both the judges and the public, receiving a standing ovation and establishing herself as one of the competition’s standout performers.

Producer Martin Dodd of UK Productions said; 

“Kristel Herrera captured the hearts of the nation on Britain’s Got Talent with her exceptional voice, and we’re thrilled to welcome her to Bournemouth this Christmas as our Princess Jasmine. She brings warmth, charm and star quality in abundance, and I know audiences are going to fall under her spell from the moment she steps onto the stage. With a cast packed full of talent and a production bursting with magic, laughter and spectacle, Kristel is another jewel in the crown of what promises to be a truly unforgettable pantomime!”

Bournemouth Pavilion, operated by BH Live in partnership with BCP Council, continues to sit at the heart of the town’s cultural life, and nowhere is that more evident than at Christmas, when the theatre becomes a place of celebration, laughter and festive entertainment for audiences of all ages – where memories are made year after year.

On behalf of BH Live, Steve Turner, Director of Venues, said:

“We’re delighted Kristel is joining the cast of Aladdin and look forward to welcoming her to the wonderful world of pantomime!”

Prepare to be whisked away on a carpet ride of adventure, laughter and spectacular entertainment as Kristel joins the all-star cast of Aladdin for what promises to be Bournemouth Pavilion’s most dazzling pantomime yet!

Tickets are on sale now at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors:

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, Croydon Council, and Southampton City 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
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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

About Bournemouth International Centre

Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is operated by the registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.

Opened in 1984 the venue is set in the heart of Bournemouth, with panoramic views across the bay. It is the south coast’s premier conference, exhibition, entertainment, and hospitality venue, with licensed capacity for up to 10,000 visitors.  Four main halls and a variety of smaller meeting and hospitality areas can be scaled to host events such as multi-hall conferences, exhibitions, meetings, music concerts, dance and comedy performances.

  • Buy tickets online at bic.co.uk
  • Buy tickets by phone 0300 500 0595
  • In person from box offices at Bournemouth International Centre

For call charges, opening times and more visit bic.co.uk.

Get social with us:
Facebook, Instagram – @BournemouthInternationalCentre

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, and dances. 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