Rapper Vanilla Ice will miss five pantomime performances at Chatham's Central Theatre.

The 80s chart-topper is ­starring as Captain Hook in production of Peter Pan but he will not be appearing in some shows because he has other commitments.

The American star will miss schools performances on December 13 and 14, a morning performance on December 17, and both shows on the last day of the run on December 31.

Production company Evolution said Vanilla Ice already had other commitments when they approached him about doing the show but he was such a big name they still wanted him.

Producer and writer Paul Hendy said: "He is an international star. He wanted to do it and we really wanted him.

"Vanilla Ice is only missing five shows. What is important is we have a superstar doing 39 shows. We have made it obvious that he will not be doing certain shows and if people book for one of those dates they will be told he will not be appearing."

The rapper, real name Robert Van Winkle, who appeared on ITV1's Dancing On Ice earlier this year, has sent a ­message to his fans in Medway via YouTube. In the video the Ice, Ice baby singer said he is looking forward to coming to Chatham.