Aylesbury Waterside Theatre and UK Productions have announced that panto favourite Leon Craig will return for a third sensational season as this year’s fabulous Dame, Nanny Nora, in the magical family pantomime Sleeping Beauty, running from Fri 4 Dec 2026 – Sun 3 Jan 2027.
Audience favourite, Leon Craig is renowned for his show-stopping costumes, quick wit and larger-than-life performances, making him one of the most exciting dames on the UK panto circuit. His return promises even more sparkle, laughter and outrageous fun for audiences across Aylesbury this festive season.
Leon Craig said: “Hello, Aylesbury—did you miss me?! Because I definitely missed you! The rumours are true… the legend, the icon, the national treasure (self-proclaimed!) is returning! And I am beyond ecstatic to be back at the glorious Waterside Theatre as your fabulous Dame in Sleeping Beauty! Get ready my loves, for more magic, more mayhem, and more sparkle than a Love Island finale outfit under full studio lighting!’
Leon joins previously announced cast member Laura Main (Call the Midwife) as Fairy Snowfall and local favourite Andy Collins (BBC 3 Counties Radio). The classic fairytale Sleeping Beauty promises to be a spectacular festive treat, packed with dazzling sets, chart-topping hits, stunning costumes and laugh-out-loud comedy for audiences of all ages.
Leon confirms this year’s production is setting the bar high: ‘This year is bigger, it’s bolder, it’s bursting at the seams with fun… Expect outrageous costumes, questionable decisions, and enough laughter to wake Sleeping Beauty herself! Set your alarms, cancel your plans, tell your nan—and get ready for the panto of your life!”
Martin Dodd of UK Productions said: “We are absolutely delighted that Leon Craig is returning to Aylesbury for a third sensational season in this year’s Sleeping Beauty. A true panto legend, Leon has been serving up fabulous frocks, razor-sharp wit and larger-than-life dames for over 20 years—and audiences simply can’t get enough of him! If you think you’ve seen it all before, think again… because Leon always brings something fresh, funny, and fabulously outrageous to the stage. So don’t hit snooze on this year’s panto—wake up, book early, and make sure you’re tucked up in your seats for what promises to be a dream of a show.’
Tickets for this year’s enchanting festive adventure are on sale now.
Sleeping Beauty (Pantomime) – Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Date(s): Fri 4 Dec 2026 – Sun 3 Jan 2027