THEATRE Royal Plymouth and Crossroads Pantomimes, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, have announced that pop icon and stage star Will Young will headline this year’s pantomime as The Fairy Godfather in Cinderella, from Friday, December 4, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027.

Former Exeter University student Will Young has spent the last two decades at the forefront of British pop after bursting onto the scene in 2002 as the original winner of Pop Idol.

His multi-award-winning music career includes four Number 1 albums, two BRIT Awards, and an impressive catalogue of hit singles including Leave Right Now, Evergreen and Jealousy.

Alongside his music, Will has carved out a successful acting career across stage and screen, as well as presenting for both BBC Radio 2 and Magic.

Will’s latest studio album Light It Up reached the UK Top 5 in 2024, and his Light It Up tour saw him play a sellout 56 dates across the UK.

His theatre credits include starring in Cabaret in the West End, where he was nominated for an Olivier Award for his portrayal of the Emcee. He has also appeared in Strictly Ballroom: The Musical (Piccadilly Theatre) and Song From Far Away (Hampstead Theatre).

Last year, Will made his panto debut at The Bristol Hippodrome as The Spirit of the Beans in Jack and the Beanstalk.

Will said: "I’m thrilled to be playing the Fairy Godfather in Cinderella at the Theatre Royal Plymouth. I made my panto debut last year and had an absolute blast. For me it’s all about having fun with the audiences and I just know the crowd in Plymouth are going to be the most fun ever. I can’t wait to get busy waving my wand all over the place and spreading a little bit of magic this Christmas. Hope to see you there.”

Tickets from www.theatreroyal.com