You’ll struggle to find anyone in the city with a bad word to say against Alison Hammond. The Queen of Birmingham’s infectious energy is beloved by all, but many were still surprised by how well she handled her panto debut at Birmingham Hippodrome.
Unsurprisingly, for a TV presenter who oozes charm, she stole the show as The Spirit of the Bells in last year’s production of Jack and the Beanstalk. It was like she’d been performing on stage all her life, and seems to have loved it so much she’s willing to do it all again this Christmas.
In a newly released video (June 20), Birmingham Hippodrome has announced that Alison Hammond will return in this year’s pantomime. She’ll be playing the Magical Mermaid in Peter Pan – presumably, a merging of the three mischievous Mermaids from Neverland.
Alison Hammond said: “Birmingham…..I’m back! I’m SO excited to return to the Hippodrome this Christmas in Peter Pan as the Magical Mermaid alongside the hilarious Matt Slack. I loved every second of Jack and the Beanstalk last year, we had so much fun, but it went by so fast that I had to come back for another. Birmingham is home to the best audiences, and I can’t wait to see them all in Neverland soon!”
Also returning, for his 11th year (!), is Matt Slack, who will be helping Peter Pan to defeat Captain Hook as Smee. The swashbuckling adventure will also include all your favourites from Neverland including Tinker Bell, Wendy, John and Michael Darling. Peter Pan flies into Birmingham on December 21, 2024, to February 2, 2025.
Described as “the high flying panto adventure,”special effects, sets and costumes fro Peter Pan will all come directly from The London Palladium. Tickets start from £19.50, but are more often around £36, and are on sale now. You can grab yours by heading here.