Powerhouse princess unveiled for Bournemouth Pavilion’s spectacular Christmas panto

News 1 July 2026

News Story

Britain's Got Talent sensation Kristel Herrera joins the cast of Aladdin!

The magic is building at Bournemouth Pavilion, as this year’s spectacular Christmas pantomime Aladdin reveals another sensational name for its stellar festive line-up.

Fresh from captivating audiences on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent, powerhouse vocalist Kristel Herrera will step into the spotlight as the beautiful Princess Jasmine, bringing her breathtaking voice, warmth and undeniable star quality to one of pantomime’s most-loved fairy-tale roles.

For generations, pantomime has been the Christmas outing families treasure together: grandparents treating grandchildren, parents reliving the excitement they felt as children, and little ones discovering the thrill of live theatre for the very first time. It is laughter, music, magic, sweets in the interval, boos for the villain, cheers for the hero and memories that last long after the decorations have come down.

This Christmas, that tradition comes dazzlingly to life at Bournemouth Pavilion, as Aladdin promises a spectacular festive adventure packed with comedy, colour, music, mischief and all the magic of a truly unforgettable family night out.

Kristel won hearts with her breathtaking Britain’s Got Talent audition, leaving audiences and judges spellbound with her phenomenal vocals and stage presence. Now she is ready to bring that same sparkle to Bournemouth, starring as Princess Jasmine in a performance set to be full of charm, heart and showstopping musical moments.

Kristel joins a brilliant cast led by Coronation Street villain James Cartwright as the wicked Abanazar. Bringing the festive fun and chaos is the fantastic Noel Brodie as Wishee Washee, with Jamie Steen starring as the wonderfully outrageous Widow Twankey.

Together, they will bring one of the greatest pantomime adventures to life in a production bursting with laughter, spectacle, songs, silliness and festive joy.

With a powerhouse princess, a villain audiences will love to boo, and a cast ready to deliver pure Christmas magic, Aladdin is set to be one of Bournemouth’s biggest family events of the festive season.

Kristel said; "Inspiring others has always been at the very heart of everything I do, so to have the opportunity to be part of a child’s very first experience of live theatre is incredibly special and deeply moving. There’s nothing quite like seeing young faces light up with wonder, excitement and pure magic, and it’s a real privilege to help create those unforgettable memories. If I can inspire even one child to dream big, believe in themselves and fall in love with the magic of theatre, then that truly means the world to me."

Following her appearance on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent 2026, Kristel Herrera captured the nation’s attention on her journey to the live semi-finals. Her performances quickly gained traction online, reaching millions of viewers and earning widespread praise. Showcasing a strong vocal range, Kristel impressed both the judges and the public, receiving a standing ovation and establishing herself as one of the competition’s standout performers.

Producer Martin Dodd of UK Productions said; “Kristel Herrera captured the hearts of the nation on Britain’s Got Talent with her exceptional voice, and we’re thrilled to welcome her to Bournemouth this Christmas as our Princess Jasmine. She brings warmth, charm and star quality in abundance, and I know audiences are going to fall under her spell from the moment she steps onto the stage. With a cast packed full of talent and a production bursting with magic, laughter and spectacle, Kristel is another jewel in the crown of what promises to be a truly unforgettable pantomime!”

Bournemouth Pavilion, operated by BH Live in partnership with BCP Council, continues to sit at the heart of the town’s cultural life, and nowhere is that more evident than at Christmas, when the theatre becomes a place of celebration, laughter and festive entertainment for audiences of all ages - where memories are made year after year.

On behalf of BH Live, Steve Turner, Director of Venues, said: “We’re delighted Kristel is joining the cast of Aladdin and look forward to welcoming her to the wonderful world of pantomime!”

Prepare to be whisked away on a carpet ride of adventure, laughter and spectacular entertainment as Kristel joins the all-star cast of Aladdin for what promises to be Bournemouth Pavilion’s most dazzling pantomime yet!

Tickets are on sale now at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.