Clive Rowe, Tameka Empson, Gemma Sutton, Kat B, Julie Yammanee

In the Far East End, on the island kingdom of Ha Ka Ney, young Aladdin dreams of finding love and making his fortune. When he discovers an enchanted lamp and meets a mysterious genie, it looks like all his wishes are about to come true – with the help of tap-dancing pandas and his larger-than-life mum, can he win the hand of his Princess or will an evil magician, some madcapped policemen and a very large pile of laundry stand in his way?

Hackney Empire celebrates its landmark 20th anniversary Christmas pantomime from writer and director Susie McKenna. Gemma Sutton (Gypsy, The Rink) takes on the title role and will be joined by Julie Yammanee (Spamilton, Here Lies Love) as Princess Ling Mai and Empire regular Kat B as Genie of the Lamp. Hackney Empire’s Olivier Award-winning Grande Dame of pantomime Clive Rowe will be making his Hackney comeback in the role of Widow Twankey. Last seen in 2015, Aladdin will mark Rowe’s 12th panto with the venue. There will also be a Hackney homecoming for Olivier Award nominated actress, television star and comedian Tameka Empson (EastEnders) who will return to play The Empress in her sixth Empire panto and following her last stage appearance 9 years ago.