Miss Rory set to get you hooked as she's unveiled as Sunderland Empire panto baddie
She’s more used to wowing us with her incredible frocks as a dame - but this year Miss Rory will be polishing her hook as a baddie.
Sunderland Empire and Martin Dodd for UK Productions have announced today that Miss Rory will be setting sail as swashbuckling Captain Rorina Hook in this year’s panto, The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook.
The panto takes flight from Friday December 11, 2026 until Sunday January 3, 2027 where Miss Rory will be joined by her Empire panto sidekick Tom Whalley as Smee.
Taking on the title role of the boy who never grew up is Emmerdale and Heartstopper’s Bradley Riches, recently announced as plucky opponent Peter Pan, with more casting to be announced.
Speaking to the Echo about getting us hooked this year, Miss Rory said: “I’ve crossed over to the dark side, for the first time in seven years I’m the baddie. It’s taken me this long to turn into a naughty tinker.”
The comedy duo have become real panto favourites in Sunderland and this will be their seventh year sprinkling some festive magic over audiences.
“We say it every year, but it’s amazing to be part of people’s Christmas tradition now - and it’s become ours too,” added Miss Rory, who is well-known for compering at Boulevard Newcastle since the award-winning venue opened in 2010.
She added: “It’s just so wonderful to be part of the fabric of the place and a special part of people’s Christmases.”
Martin Dodd, Producer for UK Productions, said: “We are delighted to that Miss Rory has agreed to climb aboard the Jolly Roger as Captain Rorina Hook in this year’s swashbuckling spectacular, The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook.
“Miss Rory is one of the North East’s most beloved entertainers, with razor-sharp wit, impeccable comic timing and just the right amount of villainous sparkle to make her a truly unforgettable Hook.
“One of the things that makes Sunderland Empire pantomime’s so special is a team that audiences adore, and Miss Rory and Tom Whalley as Captain Rorina Hook and Smee is something we’re especially excited about.
“Their chemistry, comic rivalry and ability to have audiences in stitches are legendary across Wearside, and I have no doubt they’ll once again prove why they’re one of the region’s favourite double acts.”
*The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook is at Sunderland Empire from Friday 11 December 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027. Book online now at ATGTickets.com/Sunderland