The Royal & Derngate theatre in Northampton, Northamptonshire, announced on 11 March 2026 that television actor Steve McFadden will star in its 2026 production of Beauty And The Beast. Best known for his long-running role in the soap opera EastEnders, McFadden will take on the role of the villain in the town’s annual festive show.
The theatre confirmed the casting as the first major update for the upcoming holiday season. This follows the venue being named the UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre at an awards ceremony in October 2025.
Organisers described the actor as a “booable baddie” and expect his high profile to increase interest among local families and theatre fans. Further cast members for the show will be announced later as preparations continue for the 2026 winter season.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of the UK as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know. You're part of the process.
