For the first time in seven years, X Factor finalists and Portmouth-born siblings, Same Difference, will be back together onstage performing at The Kings Theatre, Portsmouth for their summer pantomime.

Sarah Smith is joining the cast of Dick Whittington as Fairy Bowbells, teaming up with brother Sean who plays the title role.

The original run of the production was cut short in December, leaving thousands of ticket holders disappointed at missing out. But with theatres now on track to reopen, Dick Wittington – The Pompey Panto will return from Friday 23 July to Sunday 8 August 2021.

Same Difference reached the final of the X Factor back in 2007 and were soon signed by Simon Cowell’s record label, releasing two albums, before pursuing their own careers in 2014. Sean embarked on a solo career whilst continuing to work in theatre, and Sarah has been running the performing arts school SD Studios in Portsmouth – and becoming a mother.

In 2020, they released their first single in 10 years, with the proceeds going to the NHS.

Speaking about the role, Sarah said: “I’m really excited to get back on stage and dust off my fairy wings! When Sean and I called time on Same Difference and started our own projects, I drew a line under performing and focused all my time on the studio and becoming a mother.

“When the offer came through to be part of Dick Whittington, the timing felt right. Performing again will be strange but I’ve seen the show and heard so many good things from Sean and I can’t wait to get started!”

Sean added: “When Same Difference came to an end in 2014, I never thought I'd see the day that Sarah and I would be performing together on the same stage again.

“It will be our first performance together in 7 years and I think the Kings Theatre is the only place it could have happened. We’re going to finish this incredible show that we started at Christmas and I’m so excited that Sarah is a part of that!”

Tickets for Dick Whittington are now on sale here.