A POPULAR Wrexham performer who is currently touring around the world will return to his hometown to star in the title role of an Easter panto.

James Humphreys will star as the Beast in Beauty and the Beast - in the Stiwt Theatre's first Easter pantomime, which will run from Thursday, April 18 to Monday, April 22.

The 29-year-old baritone has been away for more than five years, performing around the world, singing and entertaining audiences in international venues and on cruise ships - however this Easter makes his return to his hometown to perform in the lead role in the pantomime.

No stranger to the panto stage, James starred in the Stiwt Theatre's festive pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, as Dame Debbie back in 2017.

James, a former student of Ysgol Clywedog and Coleg Cambria - formerly Yale College, said he enjoyed the role so much that he couldn't turn down the chance to perform again, when he was offered the part earlier this year.

He said: "I had an absolutely fantastic time back in Christmas 2017 performing at the Stiwt, and when I was offered the role for the Easter panto I thought why not? There's something really special about being able to perform on home turf.

"My job takes me all over the world, which is amazing but unfortunately it means many of my friends and family haven’t had the opportunity to see me perform, so I’m hoping that people will come and support me during the run."

James will be starring alongside Matt Lapinskas, who played Anthony Moon in Eastenders.

The pantomime will be brought to Wrexham by Liverpool-based LHK Productions, who have produced the theatre's Christmas pantomime for the past decade.

Lee Kelly, managing director of LHK Productions, said: "It's absolutely brilliant to have James back with us once again.

"He's a really talented guy, who audience members absolutely fell in love with, when he starred in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs."

Tickets can be purchased via www.stiwt.com or by telephoning 01978 841300.