(Image: Bradford Theatres)
A CORONATION Street legend will star as Captain Hook in this year’s Alhambra Theatre pantomime.
Ryan Thomas will play the notorious villain in Peter Pan, joining the previously announced Billy Pearce as Smee and Myra DuBois as Magical MerMyra.
It marks Ryan’s first return to panto since 2019.
The Manchester-born actor and presenter made his television debut aged 16 as Jason Grimshaw in Coronation Street, before going on to play Rafael Humphreys in Neighbours.
He has since become a popular TV star, winning ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2024 and Celebrity Big Brother in 2018, and finishing runner-up on The Games.
His TV work also includes Absolutely India: Mancs in Mumbai, alongside his brothers and late father.
Ryan also co-hosts the podcast At Home With the Thomas Bros alongside his brothers Adam and Scott.
“I’m so excited to be stepping back into panto for the first time since 2019, and what better way to return than as Captain Hook in Bradford!” said Ryan.
“It’s such an iconic character, I’m really looking forward to putting my own spin on him and work alongside Billy and Myra. It’s going to be so much fun!”
Billy Pearce will return to the Alhambra as Smee
Myra DuBois will play Magical MerMyra
Billy Pearce celebrated his 25th panto at the Alhambra Theatre in 2025/26 show Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
Myra DuBois takes on the new role of Magical MerMyra following her acclaimed appearance the Wicked Queen in last year’s panto.
Said Adam Renton, General Manager, Bradford Theatres: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Ryan Thomas to this year’s pantomime. Alongside the much-loved Billy Pearce and the sensational Myra DuBois, we’re bringing together what is undoubtedly one of the strongest pantomime casts we’ve seen at the Alhambra Theatre in recent years.
"Ryan is one of the UK’s most recognisable television personalities, with a huge following both on screen and across social media, and his addition adds even more star power to an already outstanding show.
"Audiences can expect a brilliant festive production filled with laughter, magic and unforgettable entertainment.”
The production will bring the magic of Neverland to life with spectacular special effects and stunning sets.
"Audiences can expect a high-flying, swashbuckling adventure featuring Peter Pan, Tink, Wendy, a crew of dastardly pirates and a very friendly crocodile.
The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan is produced by Crossroads Pantomimes, the world’s biggest pantomime producer and the team behind last year’s Alhambra.
- The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan runs at the Alhambra Theatre from Saturday, December 5 to Sunday, January 17, 2027. Call (01274) 432000 or visit bradford-theatres.co.uk
There will be two signed performances, two audio described performances, a captioned performance and two relaxed performances.