Continuing the new era for pantomime in Chesterfield, producers Little Wolf Entertainment have announced that beloved television actor Jake Canuso, best known for his long-running role as Mateo in the hit ITV comedy Benidorm, is set to delight audiences this Christmas as he joins the cast of Beauty and the Beast.
Jake takes on the role of Gaston, bringing his trademark charisma, comic timing and larger-than-life personality to the stage. Having entertained millions of television viewers throughout his career, he is excited to swap the Costa Blanca for the bright lights of Chesterfield.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the cast of Beauty and the Beast,” said Jake: “Pantomime is such a unique British tradition, it’s lots of fun, and I can’t wait to meet everyone in Chesterfield this Christmas – it’s going to be a fantastic festive adventure!”
Alan Bowles and Morgan Brind from Little Wolf Entertainment said, “We’re delighted to welcome Jake Canuso to this year’s pantomime. His warmth, energy and comic talent make him the perfect addition to our cast.”
Joining Jake is a hugely talented cast, including the previously announced Matthew Siveter as Dame Betty Bon Bon; much-loved Little Wolf panto comic, Harry Polden who will keep audiences laughing as the wonderfully mischievous Idle Jacques; Rhian Lynch stars as our brave heroine, Belle; Rob Leetham plays her father Marcel; Louise Liluna Browning will be casting a spell of Chesterfield as The Enchantress, Olivia Chandler appears the put upon La Fool, and acclaimed West End performer Andrew J Carter (recently returned from the international tour of Phantom of the Opera), appears as The Beast.
Derbyshire based Little Wolf are pantomime specialists, known for their incredibly high production values, original and witty scripts and strong casting, who recently increased their award wins with another successful year at the pantomime awards, taking their total to twelve.
Beauty and the Beast will be at the newly transformed venue, 1435 from 4 December 2026 until 3 January 2027. Tickets are priced from £20.50 to £27. School performances are also available to book, with discounted rates for school groups.
Accessible performances include signed, audio described, relaxed and a touch tour for blind or partially sighted customers.
Tickets can be purchased by visiting https://chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/events/beauty-and-the-beast/
