The Orchard Theatre Dartford have announced that soap star Steve McFadden will lead their panto cast as the villainous Captain Hook in Peter Pan.

This year's pantomime will run from December 14 to January 5.

Former British Soap Awards ‘Villain of the Year’, Steve McFadden is one of Britain’s favourite soap-baddies and has been a regular on our TV screens for nearly two decades.

Steve’s TV credits include The Bill, Minder, Bergerac, Kevin and Perry Go Large, Murder in Mind, Britain’s Hardest and, most famously, EastEnders.

Speaking on his casting, Steve McFadden said “Nothing beats playing to a live theatre audience, so I can’t wait to be on stage at the Orchard this Christmas. I’m also really looking forward to working with Andy once again and bringing some festive magic to Dartford and beyond.”

Peter Pan is produced by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer and the company behind the Orchard Theatre’s annual festive production.

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Managing Director of Qdos Entertainment Michael Harrison said “Steve is a first-class actor and we are absolutely delighted that he’ll be leading the cast of our Dartford pantomime alongside the brilliant Andy Ford as Smee. We’re already planning plenty of surprises and a ship-load of family friendly fun for everyone to enjoy.”