In a highly anticipated return to the stage, comedy icons Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders are set to reunite for this year's London Palladium pantomime production of 'Cinderella'. The duo, who officially retired from their sketch comedy act in 2009, will take on the roles of the Ugly Sisters, marking their first joint stage performance in seventeen years.
A Long-Awaited Comedy Comeback
French and Saunders bid farewell to their eponymous show in 2007, followed by a farewell tour in 2009, but retirement has not kept them entirely apart. Over the years, they have collaborated sporadically on charity sketches, compilation shows, and a pandemic-era podcast, maintaining their status as comedy megastars and close friends. Both have previously starred in the West End's lavish London Palladium pantomime alongside alternative comedy peer Julian Clary, but this will be the first time they share the stage together in this iconic venue.
Bringing Their Unique Flair to Panto
The London Palladium's annual pantomime is renowned as the largest in the country, known for allowing its stars creative freedom to 'do their own thing'. This production promises a distinctly French and Saunders take on the Ugly Sisters, with the comedians expected to inject their signature humor into roles that have traditionally been labeled 'Ugly'—a term that has recently fallen out of fashion in pantomime circles. Their involvement is poised to challenge Julian Clary's long-standing dominance as the main source of attention in the show, which has been a staple for over a decade.
Expressing their excitement, French and Saunders commented, 'We have wished to play the Ugly Sisters for so many years, it feels this is the fulfilment of a dream - a dream our hearts made. Watch out. It won’t be pretty.' This reunion, while some might view pantomime as an unconventional comeback, highlights the enduring appeal and versatility of these comedy legends.
Event Details and Ticket Information
'Cinderella' will run at the London Palladium from December 5, 2026, to January 10, 2027. Tickets are scheduled to go on sale starting April 2 at 10 am. This production not only celebrates the return of French and Saunders but also adds to the vibrant theatre scene in London, following other notable shows like a musical version of 'Trainspotting' set to open in the West End this summer.
As the theatre community buzzes with anticipation, this reunion underscores the lasting impact of French and Saunders on British comedy, offering audiences a chance to witness their legendary chemistry live on stage once more.
