From Peaky Blinders to panto: Jimmy Bryant cast as Buttons in Grand Opera House’s Dazzling Cinderella

This Christmas, the Grand Opera House York invites audiences of all ages to experience the ultimate festive treat as the beloved fairytale Cinderella comes to life in a lavish new pantomime production. Following the runaway success of last year’s panto, this year’s show promises even more magic, music and merriment – bringing together generations of families for an unforgettable theatrical celebration.

Leading the cast as the kind-hearted and comical Buttons is actor and comedy performer Jimmy Bryant, whose vibrant stage presence and sharp comic instincts make him a perfect fit for the role. Jimmy joins the previously announced Lisa George – best known as Beth Tinker in ITV’s Coronation Street – who will wave her wand as the Fairy Godmother.

Bryant’s previous credits span immersive theatre and live comedy, with appearances in Jack and the Beanstalk (Cheltenham Playhouse), Cockfosters (Southwark Playhouse), In The Dead Of The Night (UK Tour), Peaky Blinders: The Rise and Doctor Who: Time Fracture (BBC/Immersive Everywhere). He has performed with the band Pendulum on tour and even served as a fake vicar at a real wedding – testament to his gift for live performance and irreverent humour. His Buttons promises mischief, warmth and unexpected hilarity at every turn.

Jimmy Bryant said, “I’m absolutely buzzing to be playing Buttons in Cinderella at the Grand Opera House, York!

“Expect belly laughs, bad jokes (all mine), and a lot of unrequited love for Cinders. Tickets are selling faster than I can zip up my tunic, so what are you waiting for? Grab yours now before they come undone faster than a dodgy popper in a quick change!” 

With a script by Jon Monie, winner of Best Script at the Great British Pantomime Awards, Cinderella is packed with comic invention, fast-paced dialogue and affectionate nods to classic panto traditions. From laugh-out-loud set pieces to heart-tugging moments of magic and transformation, it offers a perfect balance of festive fun and theatrical quality.

But it is the scale of this production that truly sets it apart. Produced by UK Productions Ltd., a company with a strong pedigree in delivering West End-quality pantomimes across the UK, Cinderella at the Grand Opera House York will be a visual and musical spectacle. Audiences can expect glittering costumes, high-energy dance routines, intricate lighting design and jaw-dropping stage effects – designed to dazzle children and adults alike.

This year’s production builds on the enormous success of last year’s show, which played to packed houses and glowing reviews. Anticipation is already high, with tickets in hot demand as families plan their return for what has become a treasured Christmas tradition in York.

Martin Dodd, Producer for UK Productions, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be bringing Cinderella to York this Christmas. At UK Productions, we take pride in staging pantomimes that combine traditional storytelling with top-tier production values, and this year’s show will be one of our most magical yet. Jimmy Bryant is a brilliant comic talent with an extraordinary rapport with audiences – he brings warmth, mischief and a huge heart to the role of Buttons. Alongside a first-class creative team and Jon Monie’s award-winning script, Cinderella will be a spectacular, heartfelt, and hilarious show that families will talk about long after the curtain comes down.”

Josh Brown, Venue Director for the Grand Opera House York, said “We can’t wait to welcome Jimmy to the Grand Opera House York with guaranteed fun in the role of Buttons. It will be another hugely popular musical panto, and we’re looking forward to seeing you all at the ball!” 

Tickets are now on sale, and demand is high. Early booking is strongly advised to secure the best seats for this unmissable festive production.

Cinderella runs from Saturday 6 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026 at the Grand Opera House York.  Tickets from just £16 are available at atgtickets.com/york.