Dame Judi Dench cast in her first pantomime role as she joins Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds festive production of Snow White

An acting legend will play a starring role in a Bury St Edmunds theatre’s pantomime this festive season.

Dame Judi Dench, Theatre Royal life patron and long-time supporter, has been cast in her first pantomime role in the Theatre’s Royal’s production of Snow White.

The pantomime tells the tale of Princess Snow White who, on the death of her father, has inherited the throne of Buryland.

However, her wicked step-mother Lady Lucretia declares that Snow White is too young to lead and insists on serving as Queen until her step-daughter turns 21.

But Lucretia plans on staying Queen and Snow White fears for her life.

All hope seems lost until deep in the woods of Bradfield, Snow White makes some surprising new friends who will protect her – no matter the cost.

Dame Judi’s dulcet tones will be playing a starring role as she provides the voice of the sassy, sharp and honest Magic Mirror.

“It's my idea of heaven – playing a part in pantomime and never having to leave home,” she said.

“I am thrilled to be making my pantomime debut in Snow White. Who knows, next year they might make me a Dame.”

The Oscar winner is delighted to voice her part in Snow White in support of the theatre.

“Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds is absolutely beautiful and, as their life patron, I am so delighted to support the theatre in this way,” added Dame Judi.

Joining her in the cast are Bury panto favourite Craig Painting – the Sheriff of Nottingham in last’s year’s Robin Hood – as Dusty Crevice; Beth Tuckey – from the 2021 cast of Cinderella – as Lady Lucretia; and newcomers Peter Baker as Grumble, Lizzie Buckingham as Corky the Corgi, Philippa Carson as Gladys the Groom, Lara Lewis as Snow White and Zachary Pang as Sir Nicholas of Norwich.

Snow White is a traditional family pantomime created in-house by Theatre Royal, directed by artistic director Owen Calvert-Lyons and written by playwright Chris Hannon, with Dawn Allsopp designing the set and costumes and Jess Knight choreographing the show.

Snow White runs from November 24-January 14, with ticket prices starting from £12.

Book at www.theatreroyal.org or call the box office on 01284 769505.

Theatregoers can now spread the cost of tickets over three months with PantoPay – call the box office to inquire.