Dame Judi Dench has been announced as part of the cast for a Christmas panto at one of Suffolk's most-loved theatres this year. 

The Oscar-winning actress will be the voice of the magic mirror in the Theatre Royal's Snow White show this year. 

Dame Judi Dench said: "It's my idea of heaven, playing a part in pantomime and never having to leave home! I am thrilled to be making my pantomime debut in Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds’ Snow White, who knows… next year they might make me a Dame!

East Anglian Daily Times: Dame Judi DenchDame Judi Dench (Image: PA)

"Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds is absolutely beautiful and, as their Life Patron, I am so delighted to support the theatre in this way.”

In May 2022 the former M from the 007 series sold out the Theatre Royal’s auditorium as she talked openly about her life with her daughter, Finty Williams.

The Holywood megastar is a life patron and long-time supporter of the theatre and said she is delighted to voice her part in Snow White in support of the theatre. 

East Anglian Daily Times: Dame Judi Dench and Sir Ian McKellen outside the theatre Royal in Bury in 2005Dame Judi Dench and Sir Ian McKellen outside the theatre Royal in Bury in 2005 (Image: Newsquest)

Beth Tuckey returns to Theatre Royal playing Lady Lucretia, the wannabe-Queen who does everything she can to fend off ageing; yoga, fad diets, skin care and attempting to murder her youngest relatives of course.

Tuckey last performed at Theatre Royal in their 2021 pantomime Cinderella as failed starlet and pushy-mum, Grizelda Grizzle.

Taking on the title role of Snow White is Lara Lewis, who most recently played the roles of Beryl, Hermione and Dolly in Brief Encounter.

The young princess isn’t sure she’s got what it takes to be queen but instead prefers improving her skills as an expert mechanic.

The show will run from November 24 until January 14 with tickets on sale at the Box Office, call 01284 769505, or book online.