The Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre is delighted to announce new and returning cast members for this year’s festive pantomime Rapunzel, running from Thursday 27 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026.
Joining the cast for the first time is Mandifadza Mupita, who takes on the enchanting role of Tylwyth Teg, The Forest Sprite. Originally from Swansea, Mandifadza has pursued a career in the arts from his GCSEs through to professional training at Bridgend College, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and Italia Conti, where he earned a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre. Recent credits include Sweeney Todd (Ensemble), Sweet Charity (Charlie), and The Polar Express immersive experience (Chef/Elf).
“This marks my first Christmas in Newport,” says Mandifadza. “Panto holds a special place in my heart - it’s the joyful reminder that we’ve made it through another year. To now be part of telling that story is a true honour.”
Returning to The Riverfront stage is Chloe-Jo Byrnes, whose impressive theatre credits include Mamma Mia! (West End), Jack and the Beanstalk (Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield), and Cinderella (Wyvern Theatre, Swindon), as well as playing Fairy Daffodil in last year's pantomime, Dick Whittington.
“Panto is where so many of us first fall in love with the magic of theatre,” says Chloe-Jo. “It brings the whole community together and I’m so excited to be returning to Newport for another unforgettable season.”
Also rejoining the cast is Jacob Bradford, who delighted audiences last year as ‘Idle Jack’ in Dick Whittington. Jacob trained at Central School of Ballet and has performed around the world, with recent credits including Grease (Royal Caribbean), We Will Rock You (Anthem of the Seas), Mary Poppins (Hamburg), and Mamma Mia (Berlin).
“I’m thrilled to return to Newport,” Jacob shares. “Rapunzel is set to be a spectacular show - full of colour, music, and laughter. I can’t wait for audiences to see what we’ve been working on!”
This trio joins the previously announced Richard Elis, returning for his 14th pantomime at The Riverfront, and Gareth Tempest, stepping back into his much-loved Dame heels.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Rapunzel - a spellbinding adventure set deep in the Welsh forest, filled with unforgettable characters, dazzling sets, and festive fun for all the family.
For added flexibility, audiences can now book select performances using a split-payment option, securing tickets from just £9 per person and paying the remainder by 31 October 2025.
Instalment plans are available for performances on Sat 29 Nov, Fri 5 Dec, Sat 6 Dec, Fri 12 Dec, Sat 13 Dec, Fri 2 Jan, Sat 3 Jan, and Sun 4 Jan.
