Teddy bear royalty will star in this year’s production of 'Sleeping Beauty' alongside Debbie McGee, Doreen Tipton and Ian Adams.

The star of TV, stage and the big screen made his debut over 66 years ago and in that time has delighted audiences of millions worldwide with his cheeky sense of humour, jaw-dropping magic tricks and hilarious mishaps - despite not ageing whatsoever!

The pint-sized star has been ably supported by a number of humans, including his original owner, Henry Corbett and later his son Matthew. He became a regular on the BBC’s Saturday Special, and fronted his own programmes; The Sooty Show and Sooty & Co. He also holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running continuing children's programme in the UK.

On stage, Sooty and his friends, Sweep and Soo, have regularly appeared in theatres across the nation in an array of different productions and pantomimes. In Sleeping Beauty, Sooty will play himself with Cadell as The Jester. They will join previously announced stars - Debbie McGee and returning favourites Doreen Tipton and Ian Adams.

Sooty was unavailable for comment, but speaking about their casting Richard said:

“Sooty is beside himself at the prospect of starring in Sleeping Beauty in Wolverhampton this Christmas, it’s a role he’s always wanted to play and gives him plenty of opportunity to entertain all the boys and girls and their parents too.”

Associate Director of Development and Communications at the Grand Theatre Vicky Price added: "We’re delighted that Sooty is joining our cast with Richard Cadell this year. Our pantomime is always a magical experience for the entire family and who better to bring the magic than everyone’s favourite teddy!”

You can book tickets for Sleeping Beauty now - either in person at the theatre box office, by calling 01902 42 92 12 or online at grandtheatre.co.uk.