A Coronation Street star is swapping pulling pints at the Rovers for panto as she is announced for Norwich Theatre Royal's Christmas show. 

Sleeping Beauty runs at the city venue from Saturday, December 9 2023 until Sunday, January 7 2024. 

Beverley Callard, best known for playing Liz McDonald in Coronation Street from 1989 to 2020, will take on the role of the Evil Fairy.

READ MORE: Popular sushi chain with branches across London opening in Norwich

Norwich Evening News: Beverley Callard stars at the Evil Fairy Beverley Callard stars at the Evil Fairy (Image: Supplied by Norwich Theatre)

She has also appeared on Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps as Flo Henshaw and as a campmate on ITV's I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here. 

She said: "My husband Jon and I made a decision to make our home in Norfolk just over a year ago and we love the people, the scenery and the big skies.

"To be asked to be in the panto at Norwich Theatre Royal is just fantastic - it is a wonderful theatre and so highly respected."

Norwich Evening News: Joe Tracini plays The Fairy in this year's panto Joe Tracini plays The Fairy in this year's panto (Image: Supplied by Norwich Theatre)

READ MORE: Star-studded line-up announced for The Autumn Festival of Norfolk 2023

YouTube star and bestselling author Joe Tracini is back in the city for Christmas and will bring his madcap comedy style to the role of The Fairy. 

Richard Gauntlett returns for his 23rd year in the Theatre Royal panto and will play The Queen, complete with flamboyant dresses and elaborate wigs.

Norwich Evening News: Richard Gauntlett is back in the Norwich panto for the 23rd year Richard Gauntlett is back in the Norwich panto for the 23rd year (Image: Supplied by Norwich Theatre)

Stephen Crocker, Norwich Theatre's chief executive and creative director, said: "Pantomime is the perfect time for family and I am thrilled to welcome back Joe Tracini and Richard Gauntlett.

READ MORE: 5 of the best independent grocery shops to visit in Norwich

"I know the pair will bring the laughs and the panto magic to Sleeping Beauty. 

Norwich Evening News: Richard Gauntlett as Dame Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk last year Picture: Richard JarmyRichard Gauntlett as Dame Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk last year Picture: Richard Jarmy (Image: Richard Jarmy)

"Every panto needs a baddie, and we are delighted to welcome Beverley Callard as the Evil Fairy."

Norwich Theatre is also on the lookout for budding young performers for the Junior Ensemble, who will be playing fairies in training.

The application portal will open on July 14 and close on August 19 at 4pm and they are looking for talented young performers aged 9-11.

Tickets cost from £10 to £40 at norwichtheatre.org