The Pantoland Diaries: An Interview with The Pantomime The Adventures of Peter Pan star Jamie John (Bradford)

Welcome to a new interview series called..The Pantoland Diaries, where over next coming months we chat to the stars of pantomimes playing across the country this panto season, first up we speak to Jamie John playing the famous fairy - TINK! star of Bradford Alhambra's 2026/27 panto - The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan.

Jamie returns to Bradford after appearing in the theatres production of the classic tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs last year, while also making his West End debut at the London Palladium in Snow White.

In your own words, how would you describe Bradford’s take on the pantomime Peter Pan?

The people of Bradford and surrounding areas are in for a real treat! There’s laughter, song and plenty of magic.

Bradford is known to be the northern premiere pantomime venue, how does it feel stepping onto the stage of the Alhambra?

The Alhambra Theatre has something special. The feeling of stepping onto the stage is like no other, for over a hundred years it has created memories and I’m proud to be a part of making more.

This year the setting is Neverland. If Neverland had a Yorkshire branch, what local food and tradition would you say the Lost Boys have to include?

Sushi, curry and a good old pub lunch!

What makes Peter Pan such a special panto to perform?

This year for the first time in my Crossroads Pantomimes career, I take to the skies as TINK. I never want to grow up and neither does Peter Pan! It’s special because we can all relate and become the child within us again.

Pantomimes are often the start of someone's experience of theatre, how important is it in your opinion to keep the panto tradition alive?

Pantomime is one of theatres oldest traditions. Children bask in the glitter, the laughter, the lights, the songs. They make some of their first memories at a pantomime as they’re growing up. It’s important to be able to let their imagination shine.

With the panto performance schedule being quite demanding with sometimes 2-3 shows a day, how do you keep yourself well (vocally and physically) throughout the busy performance schedule?

Eat well, sleep well, warm-ups and downs.

Pantomimes always deliver on modern and current references including songs. Can you give us a hint or a taste on what this pantomime includes this year?

Now that would break my fairy trust!

Can you share a favourite festive memory or tradition with us?

Christmas markets are a must, they make me feel so warm and festive. It starts my festive season nicely!

What makes Bradford’s Peter Pan the ultimate festive treat this year?

All the world is made of faith, and trust, and pixie dust” and that’s exactly what you’ll be in for this year!

How would you describe the show in one sentence or 3 words

Magical, Festive, Fun!

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You can catch The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan at Bradford Alhambra from the 5th of December: https://www.bradford-theatres.co.uk/whats-on/the-pantomime-adventures-of-peter-pan