EastEnders star in panto at The Anvil in Basingstoke

She will appear in this year’s Beauty and the Beast at The Anvil in Basingstoke.

Dadd, known for her role as Amy Mitchell on BBC One’s EastEnders, said: "I am so excited to be returning to panto for the third year in a row.

EastEnders star Ellie Dadd announced as Belle in The Anvil’s spectacular Christmas pantomime Beauty and the Beast. (Image: Anvil Arts)

"I’m incredibly grateful to be back on stage doing what I love, and I can’t wait to make more amazing memories.

"Panto has such a special place in my heart because it brings families together in the most joyful way, and there is nothing quite like the energy of a live audience joining in, laughing, cheering and becoming part of the magic.

"I’m thrilled to be joining Beauty and the Beast at The Anvil this Christmas, and I can’t wait for another year of laughs, fun and plenty of panto magic."

Dadd began performing at just four-years-old and trained at the D&B Theatre School.

Ellie Dadd and Chris Pizzey in Beauty and the Beast. (Image: Anvil Arts)

She made her West End debut as Amanda Thripp in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Matilda before earning a spot at the D&B Academy of Performing Arts.

Her big break came when she secured the role of Amy Mitchell in EastEnders.

No stranger to panto, she previously performed as a juvenile dancer with UK Productions and later played Princess Rose in Sleeping Beauty at Malvern Theatres.

She recently took on the role of Belle in Beauty and the Beast in Croydon.

Martin Dodd, panto producer at UK Productions, said: "Straight from EastEnders to a Christmas panto packed with sparkle, Ellie Dadd is the perfect Belle to light up The Anvil this festive season, and having audiences going ding dong.

"She brings talent galore to the role and enough spirit to tame any beast – so make sure you snap up your tickets before they disappear like the Beast’s good manners."

The show runs from December 10, 2026, to January 3, 2027, and will feature comedy, dancing, stunning sets, magical effects and plenty of audience participation.

The Anvil promises a night of laughter, cheers and festive entertainment for audiences of all ages.

Tickets are priced at £40, £38, £31.50, £25 and £19.50, with premium seats available at £44, £42 and £36.

Discounts for family tickets, Friends of Anvil Arts, under-16s and full-time students, groups and schools.

For more information, visit anvilarts.org.uk or call the box office on 01256 844244.