Heartstopper and Emmerdale star Bradley Riches will play ‘Peter’ in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook at Sunderland Empire this Christmas

Sunderland Empire and Martin Dodd for UK Productions are taking flight for Christmas 2026 with The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook and are delighted to announce that Heartstopper and Emmerdale star, Bradley Riches,is set to join this latest swashbuckling adventure in the role of ‘Peter’ from Friday 11 December 2026 until Sunday 3 January 2027.

Bradley Riches is an award-winning autistic actor best known for his roles currently in the Yorkshire Dales as Lewis Barton in Emmerdale and as James McEwan in Netflix’s Heartstopper. In 2024, he became a favourite on Celebrity Big Brother UK, further cementing his place as a popular and authentic voice in British entertainment.

Bradley is also a bestselling author of Autistically Me and A Different Kind of Superpower, championing autistic voices and inclusive storytelling. Across TikTok and Instagram, he connects with over 2 million followers, using his platform to promote visibility, positivity, and representation.

Bradley said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be returning to panto and especially to be playing Peter Pan again- it’s such an iconic and magical role. There’s nothing quite like the energy of a live audience at Christmas, and I can’t wait to be at the Sunderland Empire. It’s going to be a brilliant festive season – I’m so excited to get flying!”

Martin Dodd, Producer for UK Productions, said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to be bringing Bradley Riches to Wearside this Christmas to lead the adventure at the magnificent Sunderland Empire. Audiences will know and love him from Emmerdale and Heartstopper, Bradley brings the courage, charm and sparkle needed to fly high as Peter Pan in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook. Sunderland you are in for a swashbuckling treat — packed with thrills, laughter and a sprinkle of fairy dust. Tickets are flying away, so hook yours now and join us for the must-see adventure!”

Bradley will of course be joined by Wearside’s most iconic panto duo, the fabulously funny North East Queen of Comedy, Miss Rory (Boulevard) and the rib-ticklingly hysterical Tom Whalley, both back by incredible popular demand.The pair will return to Sunderland Empire’s stage for a seventh year running and are sure to be cheekier than ever before.  

Join Peter, Smee, Tinker Bell, Emily Darling and Ethel the Mermaid on a brand-new adventure full of audience interaction, incredible flying effects, giggles galore and…of course, crocodiles!

Life has been smooth sailing for Peter Pan since he defeated Captain Hook… or so he thought. Whispers are spreading that the notorious Hook survived those stormy seas and is out for revenge. Could it be true? Watch out… he might be right behind you!

Get ready for gravity-defying flying scenes, stunning choreography, and mind- blowing special effects that will leave you gasping. Pirate sword fights, crocodile chases, and jaw-dropping stunts bring Neverland to life like you’ve never seen before!

Further casting to be announced.

The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook plays at Sunderland Empire Friday 11 December 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027. Tickets are available here.