Shane Richie to star in 'Aladdin' panto

EastEnders favourite Shane Richie is to appear in pantomime this Christmas, starring in a production of Aladdin in Essex.

The actor, best known for his role as Walford's Alfie Moon, will take to the stage at the Cliffs Pavilion Theatre in December, leading the cast of the production.

According to the Essex Echo, the show will run from Saturday, December 10 until Saturday, December 31.

It is thought that the pantomime is not running into January due to Richie's filming commitments with EastEnders.

Richie's Albert Square character is currently playing a central role on screen as EastEnders continues to explore the aftermath of the soap's baby swap storyline following Ronnie Branning's confession about her desperate act.

John Partridge, who plays Christian Clarke on the show, is also doing a stint in panto this year - starring as Prince Charming in a production of Cinderella at The Marlowe Theatre in Kent.

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