Soap fans are in for a treat next spring as EastEnders favourite Max Bowden trades Albert Square for the stage. The actor, best known for playing Ben Mitchell, is set to perform at the Darlington Hippodrome in the comedy murder mystery Murder at Midnight.

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From Walford to the West End of the North

The Darlington Hippodrome announced the exciting casting news, saying, “We’re thrilled to announce that Max Bowden will be joining the cast of Murder at Midnight as Paul!”

Bowden joins a star-studded lineup that includes Jason Durr and Susie Blake, promising audiences a night filled with sharp humor, intrigue, and unexpected twists. The production runs from Wednesday, April 1 to Saturday, April 4, 2026, bringing classic whodunnit suspense to the stage with a comic edge.

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A New Challenge for Max Bowden

Max has become a household name through his gripping portrayal of Ben Mitchell in EastEnders, earning praise for tackling hard-hitting storylines involving identity, trauma, and family loyalty. Before his EastEnders fame, he also starred as Justin Fitzgerald in Waterloo Road.

His upcoming role in Murder at Midnight marks a fun and thrilling change of pace, giving fans a chance to see a different side of the actor’s talent. The play promises “plenty of laughs and unexpected turns,” keeping audiences guessing until the final curtain call.

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What to Expect

“Murder at Midnight” blends classic crime mystery tension with laugh-out-loud moments, making it a perfect night out for both theatre lovers and soap fans. With Bowden’s charisma and dramatic flair, his stage performance is expected to be one of the show’s highlights.

Tickets for the Darlington run are already generating buzz among fans eager to see one of EastEnders’ brightest stars live on stage.