Last year, Edward stole the show (and audiences’ hearts) with his portrayal of Maid Trott in the gigantic Jack and the Beanstalk. For the 2025 festive season, he'll be bringing the magic as Aladdin’s larger-than-life mother, and launderette extraordinaire, Widow Twerkey.

Rowe has also been announced as writer for the pantomime alongside Richard Healey (The Creakers, Peter Pan).

Edward says: “There’s nothing more magical than a Christmas show at the Cornwall Playhouse. We’re focused on fun, heart, and a whole heap of Cornish spirit this year, giving the classic story of Aladdin a proper local makeover with some cheeky twists and lampfuls of laughs.”

Aladdin is set to be a sparkling ride through the skies under the direction of Nick Evans, who brings with him a wealth of West End and international experience.

Nick’s enjoyed a long career in theatre, serving as Associate Director on major productions including Billy Elliot the Musical in London. His credits span a production of Rock of Ages in London, the World Arena Tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, and international tours of Mamma Mia, Mary Poppins, and Bat Out of Hell. In Mexico City, he directed a new production of Jesus Christ Superstar, earning a Best Director nomination at Los Metro Awards, and during lockdown he led a critically acclaimed production of Romeo & Juliet, featuring Sir Derek Jacobi and Sam Tutty.

This year’s creative team connects West End experience with top Cornish creatives, fuelling HfC’s mission to bring the highest quality entertainment to the Duchy and to create a cultural engine, connecting Cornwall to the world. Choreography comes from movement artist Jevan Howard-Jones (Cornwall Playhouse Productions’ Peter Pan, Wicked, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe) with a production team that harnesses HfC’s homegrown talent in Helen Tiplady and Kelly MacDonald.

Julien Boast, HfC CEO and Executive Producer of Aladdin commented: “We’re over the moon to welcome Edward Rowe back as our Dame in this year’s Christmas show with the brilliant blend of humour and heart he always brings. We can’t wait to whisk audiences away once again for adventure, surprises, and proper Cornish joy in this homegrown production.”

Aladdin runs from Fri 05 December at the Cornwall Playhouse, Hall for Cornwall. Tickets available from £15 at www.hallforcornwall.co.uk

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