Mateo the barman from telly's Benidorm will serve up laughs as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast panto in Chesterfield

Best known for his long-running role as barman Mateo in the hit ITV comedy which has entertained millions of viewers, Jake will play Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. Jake will bring his trademark charisma, comic timing and larger than life personality to the stage at the newly transformed venue 1435.

"I'm absolutely thrilled to be joining the cast of Beauty and the Beast," said Jake. "Pantomime is such a unique British tradition, it’s lots of fun, and I can't wait to meet everyone in Chesterfield this Christmas - it's going to be a fantastic festive adventure!"

Alan Bowles and Morgan Brind from Little Wolf Entertainment said: "We're delighted to welcome Jake Canuso to this year's pantomime. His warmth, energy and comic talent make him the perfect addition to our cast.”

Joining Jake is a hugely talented cast, including the previously announced Matthew Siveter as Dame Betty Bon Bon; much-loved Little Wolf panto comic, Harry Polden, who will play Idle Jacques; Rhian Lynch starring as brave heroine Belle; Rob Leetham playing her father Marcel; Louise Liluna Browning as The Enchantress, Olivia Chandler as the put-upon La Fool and acclaimed West End performer Andrew J Carter as The Beast.

Derbyshire based Little Wolf are pantomime specialists, known for their incredibly high production values, original and witty scripts and strong casting, who recently increased their award wins with another successful year at the pantomime awards, taking their total to twelve.

Beauty and the Beast runs from December 4, 2026 until January 3, 2027. Tickets are priced from £20.50 to £27. School performances are also available to book, with discounted rates for school groups.

Accessible performances include signed, audio described, relaxed and a touch tour for blind or partially sighted customers.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting https://chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/events/beauty-and-the-beast