The Liverpool Empire Theatre and First Family Entertainment are delighted to reveal an exciting cast announcement for Aladdin at the Empire this Christmas.

Dancing on Ice Champion of Champions, Ray Quinn is returning to the Empire to play the principal role, Aladdin this Christmas heading up an all-Liverpool cast including Claire Sweeney, Leanne Campbell and Pete Price.

It’s been a busy year for Ray. After being crowned Dancing on Ice Champion of Champions, he went on to perform in a sell-out ice skating tour but is looking forward to another Christmas at home.

Ray Quinn said, “The Empire is one of the best theatres in the country and I love performing to a home crowd. I’m so pleased that I’m coming home for Christmas again this year. The cast got on really well last year; we’re like a little panto family, Liverpool’s pantomime dream team!”

Also returning to pantomime at the Empire is Radio City’s Leanne Campbell as Princess Jasmine and Pete Price, who’ll play the Emperor.

As well as welcoming back some familiar faces, there are also some new additions to the cast. From Channel 4’s Brookside, Claire Sweeney will play the Genie of the Ring.

Claire Sweeney said, “I can’t wait to get on stage at the Empire. I’ve performed in theatres all over the U.K. but Liverpool audiences are the best. When I heard Ray was also joining the cast, I was over the moon. We’ve worked together before so it will be fun to get together again and catch up.”

Diane Belding, Liverpool Empire General Manager, said, “Liverpool audiences love a good panto and we’ve got the best of the local talent in our cast. We had a phenomenal pantomime season last year, the chemistry between the cast was great so we’re thrilled some of them are returning. We’re also looking forward to welcoming some new people to the Empire panto family. With our fantastic local cast and great pricing options, Aladdin is sure to be the Empire’s best panto yet!”

Aladdin is a magical carpet ride of a pantomime guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages. Rub the magic lamp, enter the cave of wonders and be transported to this fun fairytale world. With stunning sets, glittering costumes, wonderful songs and dazzling dancing that audiences have come to expect from thier pantomime – topped off with laughter and audience participation aplenty! Make tickets to Aladdin one of your three wishes for Christmas 2014.

Aladdin runs from Friday 12th December 2014 – Sunday 04th Feb 2015. Tickets are on sale now!