11/05/2026
We’re absolutely gutted to hear this news 💙
Steve has been such a huge part of the Whitley Bay panto magic for so many years, bringing laughter, memories and so much joy to generations of families. The Playhouse stage won’t be the same without him.
Not only has he been a true star on stage, but he’s also been an incredible supporter of Pantrini’s and so many local businesses in Whitley Bay over the years — always championing the town and the people in it. That support has meant so much to all of us.
From everyone at Pantrini’s, thank you Steve for 15 amazing years of memories, laughs and community spirit. We wish you nothing but happiness and success in your next adventure.
A true Whitley Bay legend and he’ll be a massive miss this panto season 👏🎭✨
Steve Walls - Compère, Comedian & Vocalist
BLUE GENIE ENTERTAINMENT CAST UPDATE FOR PLAYHOUSE PANTOMIME 2026/27 SEASON
After an incredible 15 consecutive years appearing in pantomime at the Playhouse, Blue Genie Entertainment can confirm that Steve Walls has made the decision not to return for the upcoming season.
Steve has become a hugely loved part of the Playhouse pantomime tradition over the years, creating countless memories for audiences and playing a major role in the continued success and growth of the production. Together, we have welcomed thousands upon thousands of loyal audience members through the doors of the Playhouse over the last 15 years, and we remain incredibly grateful for the support they have shown the pantomime year after year.
Steve has recently accepted the opportunity to appear in pantomime for another company at one of the leading venues in the UK and has decided that now is the right time for him to move on and take on a new challenge.
Gary Telfer, Producer for Blue Genie Entertainment, said:
“Steve has been a hugely loved and longstanding member of the Playhouse pantomime family for the last 15 years, and we thank him for the contribution he has made to the productions during that time. He has played a major role in helping us grow the pantomime into what it is today, and audiences have enjoyed watching him perform year after year.
This year’s pantomime will obviously be different, but audiences can still expect the same fabulous, high-quality family show that Playhouse audiences have come to know and love over the years. Our commitment to delivering a first-class pantomime experience remains completely unchanged, and we are very excited about the future.”
Playhouse Whitley Bay Theatre Director, Phil Smith said, “We thank Steve sincerely for his hard work over the years and we wish him every success. He’s helped to build the foundations of what’s now become a key part of so many families’ festive season; a trip to the Playhouse panto. Every year we aim to raise the bar and this Christmas we look forward to doing that once again!”
We are delighted to welcome one of the UK’s top comic/impressionists, Andrew Fleming, who will play Muddles in this year’s pantomime.
Andrew Fleming said “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining the Playhouse pantomime this Christmas and cannot wait to meet the legendary Whitley Bay audiences. The Playhouse has such a fantastic reputation for pantomime, and I’m looking forward to bringing plenty of laughs, fun and energy to the show. We’re going to work incredibly hard to make this a Christmas to remember for everyone.”
More information and further casting announcements will be made over the coming weeks.
