Britain’s Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas is already making waves before 101 Dalmatians: The Musical officially opens in London. In a first look performance of the show’s theme song Animal Lover at West End LIVE 2025, Christmas delivered vocals that sent goosebumps through the crowd from head to toe.
Even though it’s only the first week of rehearsals, fans say she’s already bringing the perfect “Cruella vibes” they hoped for. With a voice that blends power and attitude, Christmas captures Cruella de Vil’s iconic flair in a way that’s both theatrical and thrilling.
Her performance was part of a sneak peek that left the audience buzzing. From the energy to the vocals, everything pointed to a show that’s already exceeding expectations. And if this is only a taste of what’s to come, audiences are in for something truly special.
Watch her performance below.
Full Cast Announced for 101 Dalmatians at the Eventim Apollo This Summer
Set to run from 18 July to 30 August 2025 at London’s Eventim Apollo, 101 Dalmatians The Musical is shaping up to be one of the summer’s most talked-about productions. The full cast has now been confirmed, and it’s full of familiar faces and exciting debuts.
Joining Sydnie Christmas as the fashion-obsessed Cruella de Vil are TV presenter Jeff Brazier, who will make his stage debut as Casper, and JLS star Aston Merrygold, taking on the role of Jasper.
The main cast also includes:
- Laura Baldwin as Danielle
- Linford Johnson as Pongo
- Samuel Thomas as Tom
- Emma Thornett as Perdi
The ensemble features Dylan Collymore as Spud, Benedict Hastings, Lottie Johnson as Tabby, Rachel Lea-Gray as Madeleine, Kenan Lewis Smith as Patch, Callum Martin, Joe Sleight, Chioma Uma as Trudy, and Jhanaica Van Mook as Button. Victoria Compson-Bradford and Ronan O’Hara will appear as swings.
Jeff Brazier said: “I love taking on new challenges and I’m so excited to absorb all of the acting experience around me from the cast of 101 Dalmatians. I’ll be working hard to learn my lines and looking forward to bringing smiles to lots of people’s faces throughout our summer run at the Eventim Apollo.”
Aston Merrygold added: “I’m very proud to be joining the cast of 101 Dalmatians and excited to be a part of this production in Hammersmith for the summer. The kids can’t wait to see their dad back on stage!”
What to Expect From the Show
101 Dalmatians The Musical brings the classic story of Pongo and Perdi to life with stunning puppetry, catchy original songs, and plenty of heart. As they set off to rescue their puppies from Cruella’s wicked plan, the story unfolds with humor, excitement, and emotional moments the whole family can enjoy.
This new version of the show is based on Dodie Smith’s beloved book, and features songs by Douglas Hodge, a book by Johnny McKnight, and direction by Bill Buckhurst. The creative team includes set designer David Woodhead, costume designer Sarah Mercadé, choreographer Lucy Hind, musical supervisor Alfonso Casado Trigo, orchestrator Jack Hopkins, puppet designer Jimmy Grimes, lighting designer James Whiteside, and sound designer Chris Whybrow.
Originally staged at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in 2022 and later touring the UK and Ireland, the musical now lands in London for a limited season. Judging by Sydnie Christmas’s early performance and the excitement from fans, this might be one of the standout shows of the year.
