This year's pantomime features the return of the celebrated writer Trish Cooke as the theatre celebrates its 140th anniversary season.
Pinocchio at Stratford East artwork.
The full cast and creative team has been announced for Pinocchio.
Directed by Omar F. Okai, the cast includes beloved panto dame Michael Bertenshaw (As You Like It, The RSC) returning to the stage as Blue Rinse Fairy, Rushand Chambers (For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy, Garrick Theatre) as Sly Fox, Dylan Collymore (Shrek the Musical, Eventim Apollo) as Pinocchio, Nicole Louise-Lewis (SIX, UK & International Tour) as Krik Krak, Charlotte Louise (The Bodyguard, Ljublijana) as Ella/Taylor and Dance Captain, Tok Morakinyo as Geppetto, Jhanaica Van Mook as Miss Kat, and Travis Wood (Seize the Cheese!, New Wimbledon Theatre) as Lampwick/Antonio. MD/Keys Nick Barstow is joined by Perry Melius on Drums/Percussion and Sara Farina on Bass.
Completing the creative team are Set and Costume Designer Stewart J. Charlesworth, Lighting Designer Bretta Gerecke, Sound Designer Gareth Fry, Musical Director Nick Barstow, Choreographer Claudimar Neto, Assistant Choreographers Abz Kareem and Bradley Salter, Assistant Director Sadie-Jean Shirley, Casting Consultant Jill Green CDG with Casting Associate Tom Shiels, and Costume Supervisor Alice Lessing.
Known for tearing up the rulebook and telling classic stories with a special twist, Stratford East's production of Pinocchio promises to be no different. Experience a signature blend of show-stopping original music, side-splitting comedy and enchanting sets and costumes that the entire family will enjoy.
Pinocchio will play at the Stratford East Theatre from 23 November until 04 January 2025.
