Hardeep Singh Kohli will play the Genie of the Lamp in Aladdin at Leicester’s De Montfort Hall this Christmas.
TV soap actress Tameka Empson will play the Empress of China in the venue’s panto which is being revived after an absence of almost 20 years.
Antony Flint, general manager of De Montfort Hall, says, “I’m thrilled. Tameka and Hardeep were two of the first names we had on our list and I’m really pleased that they’ve now signed up.”
Hardeep Singh Kohli worked with Tara Arts on their Bollywood-styled pantos Dick Whittington Goes Bollywood and Bollywood Cinderella.
“Leicester is a wonderfully multi-cultural city and I’m proud to be working on a production designed to appeal to so many different people within the community,” he said.
Tameka Empson won funniest female at the 2012 Inside Soap Awards for her portrayal of Kim Fox in EastEnders. She was also one of comedy trio 3 Non Blondes.
She has appeared in numerous pantomimes for Aladdin director Susie McKenna.
“I adore panto, particularly Susie’s pantomimes, and I’m really excited to be involved in such an exciting new venture," she commented.
“I’ve played the Empress of China for Susie before and I absolutely love the role—she’s such a hilarious character to play.”
Aladdin runs from Saturday 14 December until Sunday 5 January.