Leadgate, County Durham – Excitement is growing in Leadgate as the cast of Snow White, The Roxy Theatre’s first-ever professional pantomime, came together this week for an official photoshoot at the newly restored venue.
The event offered a first look at the talented cast in costume, along with an exclusive preview of the beautifully refurbished Art Deco theatre, which will welcome audiences this December for the first time in almost 90 years.
Over 350 brand-new theatre seats now fill the auditorium, still wrapped in protective plastic as the final touches are made to the state-of-the-art venue. The Roxy’s stunning rebirth is set to become the beating heart of entertainment in Leadgate once again.
Leading the cast is Rebecca Lightburn (Mission: Impossible 8, ITV’s Pride of Britain Awards), Reece Sibbald (pantomime veteran and producer), and Cal Halbert (Britain’s Got Talent, The Mimic Men) in their tenth show together. They are joined by local lad Corey Muizelaar as the Handsome Prince and Charlie Hill, celebrated for her powerhouse vocals, as the Wicked Queen.
Adding to the magic, 14 young performers from across County Durham will share the roles of the Seven Mini Miners across all performances, bringing extra fun and energy to this festive family show.
David Barnes, Theatre Manager, shared his excitement:
“It’s incredible to see the theatre so close to completion. The photoshoot was a very special moment – watching the cast bring their characters to life against the backdrop of this restored venue was quite moving. This theatre was built to bring joy to the community, and this Christmas it will do exactly that.”
Producer Reece Sibbald added:
“We’re now in the final stages of preparation ahead of the rehearsals, and everything is coming together for what promises to be an unforgettable show. With a wonderful professional cast, the incredible young Mini Miners, and the Roxy’s stunning transformation, audiences are in for a fantastic pantomime production. I urge families to book early and be part of this historic moment at The Roxy.”
Book Now for a Fairytale Christmas
Snow White runs from 16–28 December 2025 at The Roxy Theatre, Leadgate, Consett.
Tickets are on sale now at www.watlingspaces.co.uk
