Last Christmas she was a Mini Miner at The Roxy. This autumn, 10-year-old Lola joins the cast of Billy Elliot the Musical.
A young performer from County Durham is celebrating a dream opportunity after being cast in one of the UK’s most celebrated musicals.
10-year-old Lola, who captured audiences’ hearts as Grumbly the Mini Miner in last year’s historic pantomime Snow White at The Roxy Theatre Leadgate, has been cast as Debbie in the upcoming UK Tour and West End production of Billy Elliot the Musical, featuring music and lyrics by global superstar Elton John.
Produced by Reece Sibbald Productions Ltd, Snow White was the first professional pantomime to be staged at The Roxy Theatre Leadgate in its history. Lola was one of 14 young performers selected to become the venue’s first ever Mini Miners, sharing the stage alongside a professional cast and gaining invaluable experience in a full-scale theatre production.
Alongside her pantomime success, Lola has also been developing her skills through Creative Allsorts NE CIC, a North East-based musical theatre training programme for ages 4 to 16 and over.
We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud of Lola. Watching her grow as a performer during Snow White was a privilege. Lola embraced every challenge, brought so much personality to the role and proved that talent can come from anywhere.
Reece Sibbald, Producer of Snow White
Rebecca Lightburn, Director of Creative Allsorts NE CIC, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of Lola and we can’t wait to see her shine. We hope her journey inspires other young performers across the North East to follow their dreams too.”
Billy Elliot the Musical will begin performances at Sunderland Empire from 4 to 28 November 2026, before embarking on a UK Tour and continuing into London’s West End.
The Roxy’s next pantomime, The Little Mermaid, runs from 12 to 28 December 2026 and will welcome 24 children into the professional production.
Words submitted by Reece Sibbald Productions
