Ruby Mann, who starred as Princess Jasmine in Aladdin and landed her role through last year’s open auditions, will head up a panel of industry professionals at the event in Dartford.
Ms Mann holds a master’s degree from the Guildford School of Acting and said the event feels like a full-circle moment.
Joining the panel is Scott Davies, a West End professional with more than 15 years of stage experience and a consultant for major UK theatre producers.
Mr Davies will soon begin work on Sunday in the Park with George, starring Jonathan Bailey and Ariana Grande.
The panel also includes Laura Taylor, associate producer at Imagine Theatre.
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With 30 years in the industry, Ms Taylor has cast stars such as David Hasselhoff and Cilla Black.
Completing the panel is Tal Rosen, theatre director at the Orchard Theatre and the driving force behind the launch of the award-winning Orchard West.
Mr Rosen said: “I am thrilled to be a judge. I am passionate about discovering and nurturing local talent to help ignite their careers.”
The diverse lineup of finalists promises a night of variety and entertainment, from spoken word to indie music and dance. Acts include Hope On Prescription, a spoken word trio, hypnotist Jason Simmons, and the Liz Burville Performing Arts competition dance team.
Marcus Wells, a 17-year-old country and folk singer-songwriter, will also perform, alongside the Mulvihill Academy of Irish Dance, founded by former Riverdance member Rachel Mulvihill. Other finalists are Dartford-born indie rock band The Chastilians, Kent a cappella duo Two Good Reasons, and South East London music student Singing Jay.
Vocalist Daisy McGhee-Lusty, 24, who works at the Royal Courts of Justice and brings her professional holiday park experience to the London gigging scene, completes the lineup.
The Dartford’s Got Talent 2026 grand finale takes place at Orchard West. Tickets can be booked online at trafalgartickets.com/orchard-theatre-dartford/en-GB/event/other/dartfords-got-talent-2026-tickets.
