One of the crucial elements to Reading’s hit pantomimes is the young dancers who comprise the junior ensemble – and the search is on to find this year’s cast.
Young dancers are being invited to audition for the junior ensemble for Aladdin. The production, which runs at The Hexagon from 5 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, will once again unite stars Justin Fletcher and Paul Morse.
The pantomime is staged by Imagine Theatre and they are keen to invite anyone aged between nine and 16 to audition. They don’t need to be in a dance or theatre school, or have any previous experience.
Every year, the auditions are hugely popular days with hundreds of children taking part.
The event runs in two sessions: in the morning, those auditioning will be taught a routine – no advance preparation needed. Then a selection will be called back for additional auditions in the afternoon.
Imagine Theatre make a decision on the day, and let everyone know there and then.
All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of the event.
The auditions are scheduled for Sunday 14 June 2026, with registration taking place between 9.30am and 10am at The Hexagon.
The audition panel is looking for three teams of eight performers who demonstrate strong dance and performance skills, enthusiasm, and the ability to follow instructions. Additional reserve members will also be selected.
When is the Aladdin panto auditions coming to Reading, and how can I get tickets?
Auditions for the Aladdin junior ensemble take place at The Hexagon on Sunday, 14 June 2026 from 9.30am. Participation is free of charge, but applicants must bring a completed application form on the day. This can be downloaded from Imagine Theatre’s website: https://www.imaginetheatre.co.uk/pantomimes/2026-aladdin-reading, or from the Reading What’s On website: https://whatsonreading.com/junior-ensemble-auditions-aladdin-panto
Applicants must be at least nine years old and in year four of school by the start of rehearsals, and no older than 16 and in year 11 by the final performance date.
The audition process focuses solely on dance and performance; children will not be required to sing or read scripts. Participants will be taught a routine on the day and do not need to prepare material in advance.
The Hexagon is located at Queens Walk, Reading RG1 7UA.
For further enquiries, the Box Office can be contacted on 0118 960 6060.
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