We’re thrilled to welcome David Zachary, starring as Dandini, to Bournemouth Pavilion for his first pantomime by the sea and his 11th consecutive festive season, spreading panto magic across the UK

Before stepping into the spotlight as a presenter and performer, David trained with the National Youth Theatre, National Youth Music Theatre, and earned a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre from Trinity Laban.

His stage work includes Rhythm of the Dance (US & European Tour), A Christmas Carol (Lyceum Theatre), Bromance: The Dudsical (Kenton Theatre), and of course, countless encounters with beanstalks, broomsticks, pirates, and pumpkins in pantomimes nationwide!

On screen, David has appeared in The Hatton Garden Job, Tomorrow Morning, and ITV2’s sketch comedy Glitchy, as well as commercial campaigns for Mettle, Paddy Power, and McDonald’s. Yes, those eyebrows were really his… and they were really real!

David is also a familiar face as a TV and live event host, regularly appearing across the UK and U.S., and following the world premiere of his one-man show earlier this year, there are some very exciting things brewing for 2026…

It’s shaping up to be another fabulous festive season in fact, it’s going to be Wicked! Just make sure you’re home by midnight after the show… or you might just turn into a pumpkin!

A star-studded cast joining David Zachary on stage are fan favourites Melanie Walters (Gavin & Stacey) as the Fairy Godmother, Olivia Birchenough (Milkshake!) as Cinderella herself and panto favourite Noel Brodie, returning with his signature brand of high-energy hilarity.

This is no ordinary pantomime. Produced by UK Productions Ltd, Cinderella is set to dazzle audiences with West End production values on a Bournemouth stage – think breathtaking new sets, glorious costumes dripping with sparkle, sensational lighting, show-stopping dance routines, and spectacular effects guaranteed to wow the whole family. With a stellar cast leading the magic, this is Bournemouth’s ultimate festive treat, packed with laughter, wonder, and theatrical brilliance.

This year’s panto highlights include:

• A variety of vibrant, young talent from across the region, including singers and dancers.
• A relaxed performance on Thursday 16 December 2025, open to everyone and great for those who prefer a gentler panto experience.
• Ice creams for school groups of 20+ plus a limited number of funded tickets for pupils on low income, thanks to the generosity of previous panto audiences (T&Cs apply).
• Group rates available (10+, 20+, 30+).
• Concessions for under 16s on selected performances.
• School performances Tuesday 9, Wednesday 10, Monday 15 and Wednesday 17 December 2025.

From curtain-up to the final bow, Cinderella promises pure magic, perfect for families, friends, and fairytale fans of all ages.