![Panto 2026 cast. [From left to right] Alex Antsey, Andrew Curphey and Ellie Clayton.](http://www.medway.gov.uk/images/Panto_1_660.jpg)
It may still be summer in Medway, but panto season is always just around the corner – and this year we have an enchanting tale of magic and true love.
Cinderella will sweep audiences out of their seats at The Central Theatre Chatham from Friday, 11 December 2026 to Sunday, 3 January 2027.
It is one of the most-loved pantos of all, with breathtaking special effects, iconic music and nonstop laughs - families will be sure to have a ball.
Can the prince find their belle of the ball, Cinderella, played by CBBC star Ellie Clayton, and overcome her Wicked Stepmother played by Eastenders star Zaraah Abrahams, and the Ugly Stepsisters, played by award-winning comedy duo Luke & Elliott.
Returning by popular demand, Alex Antsey will once again grace the stage, this time as the wand-waving Fairy Godmother – and is joined by fellow returner, Britain’s Got Talent’s Andrew Curphey, who will no doubt deliver belly-busting performances as Buttons.
Bringing the magic of pantomime to life
Cllr Nina Gurung, Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and Leisure, said: “The Christmas pantomime is a special tradition in Medway, where families can sing, laugh and embrace the festive spirit. The Central Theatre always do a fantastic job bringing the magic of pantomime to life, and this year will be no different!
“It is also wonderful to see the return of the accessible and relaxed performances, which have made sure that the magic of Medway’s pantomime can be enjoyed by everybody. Tickets are on sale now – so grab your glass slippers and secure your seat!”
Preview night takes place on Friday, 11 December, with tickets costing £18. Tickets for other performances start at £21.50. Children under 18 months can enter free of charge, but still require a ticket. Please contact the Box Office on 01634 338338 if you plan on bringing a child under 18 months old.
A British Sign Language (BSL) signed performance will take place on Sunday, 13 December at 6pm.
A relaxed performance will take place on Wednesday, 30 December at 5pm. In addition to being BSL signed, the house lights will be left on, loud noises and special effects will be removed and the audience may move around the auditorium.
School performances are taking place on 15, 16 and 17 December at 10.30am. Schools must book these tickets through the box office on 01634 338338.
To find out more, including booking tickets, visit Medway Tickets Live.