Coronation Street bad boy Gray O’Brien stars in Aladdin at Manchester Opera House

Dec 9 2009 Ellesmere Port Pioneer

CORONATION Street bad boy Gray O’Brien is the star attraction in the spectacular pantomime Aladdin at the Opera House in Manchester this Christmas.

O’Brien – best known as Tony Gordon – is playing the evil Abanazar, with Hollyoaks and Dancing on Ice favourite Chris Fountain taking the role of Aladdin.

Also in the cast is Sue Devaney (Coronation Street, Dinner Ladies) as the Genie of The Ring, Eric Potts (who played Diggory Compton in Corrie), as the panto dame Widow Twankey, XFM DJ Mike McClean as Wishee Washee and former BBC Radio 2 Choirgirl of the Year, Eloise Irving as Princess Jasmine.

Kevin Wood, chief executive of First Family Entertainment, producers of the pantomime, said: “This production of Aladdin is going to be the most spectacular pantomime the Manchester audiences have ever seen, with the most magnificent set and costumes, fabulous song and dance routines and a laugh-a-minute script.”

Aladdin can be seen at the Opera House in Quay Street until January 3. Ring 0844 847 2295 or visit www.palaceandoperahouse.org.uk.