The top-of-the-bill casting coup was the brainchild of Michael Harrison, of Michael Harrison Entertainment and Crossroads Pantomimes.
Hes the UKs pantomime supremo with 24 panto productions set to open across the country in December.
I thought: Hello!
Jennifer Saunders to make London panto debutCrossroads Pantomimes
Captain Hook is often played by a man and I thought why not do a gender change?
Its what pantomime is all about, isnt it?
will play Tinker Bell.
Julian Clary in 2022’s ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’Paul Coltasi
Watch on Deadline
Peter Panwill run at the Palladium from December 9-January 14.
So Jennifer knows what shes in for, Harrison said, followed by guffaws of laughter.
Saunders recently appeared on London stages as Madame Arcadia in Noel CowardsBlithe Spirit.
It was directed by Richard Eyre, who also directed her in the filmAllelujah.
Well, this year theyll be talking about our crocodile!
Yes, therell obviously be a crocodile.
ItsPeter Panat the Palladium, itll be very over the top.
The big croc will be created by Twins FX.
Pantomimes are definitely not for the faint-hearted.
They can be riotous at times but Jennifers a proven comic genius.
He also writes great gags.
This year Clary will play Seaman Smee.
Hell appear swathed in creations by designer Hugh Durrant.
As for Nigel Havers (Chariots of Fire, Penelope), his role is undetermined.
He enjoys being made fun of in the panto.
Ventriloquist and comedian Paul Zerdin (Paul Zerdin: All Mouth) will play Starkey, a crewman.
Peter and Wendy are yet to be cast.
Peter Panwill be 43-year-old Harrisons 11th Palladium show.
Peter Panpriority booking opens April 27, with general public booking from April 28.
Set designs are by Mark Walters and costume designs by Durrant.
