You’re in for a giant treat at the Marina Theatre, with all the glitter, slapstick and fairytale fun we’ve come to expect from their family pantomime!

This year’s tale of Jack and the Beanstalk once again delights with a cast of famous faces - with X Factor star Sam Callahan taking on the lead role of Jack, joined by A Touch of Frost actor John Lyons returning for his third year as the King.

 

Set in a far away land, the residents of Tottering on the Brink are plagued by the terrifying giant Blunderbore and his evil sidekick Fleshcreep, who kidnaps the princess to feed to the giant.

Fleshcreep entered the stage to boos and hisses from the audience and had one of the best pantomime cackles I have ever heard!

Brave Jack vows to kill the loathsome giant, free his village from the torment and prove his worth to the King in exchange for Princess Primrose’s hand in marriage.

All with the support of the magical fairy, who with a swish of her wand helps Jack on his journey into the clouds.

The creative team did a brilliant job of combining panto tradition with a 21st century twist, with TikTok dance routines, cost of living gags and even a hip-hop routine from Lyons, supported by the talented ensemble who brought a huge amount of energy to the stage.

Despite having no lines, Daisy the Disco Cow, featuring disco ball earrings, was a huge hit with the audience, mooing and jiggling her way off to the market.

And a big surprise delighted the audience as they climbed the magical beanstalk and entered the giant's lair.

This year saw a change of face for the fabulous dame role, with Jamie Jones starring as milkmaid Dame Trott “Trotty”.

No expense was spared when it came to Trotty’s wardrobe, with a collection of brightly coloured, glittery dresses to suit every scene, and the stilettos to match.

One face who wasn’t new to the Marina audience was everyone’s favourite sidekick Terry Gleed, who lights up the stage with his hysterical one-liners and comedic dance moves.

Back for the seventh time, playing the role of Simon “this year” - and already confirmed for next year’s panto too - Terry provides the sing-a-long fun for the kids and the laugh out loud innuendos for the adults.

And despite England’s quarter final exit, the panto team paid tribute to the World Cup with a rendition of Vindaloo featuring football strips from Lowestoft Town, and chants of Sweet Caroline’s “good times never seem so good” every time Simon entered the stage.

Jack and the Beanstalk continues at the Marina Theatre in Lowestoft until Sunday, January 1 2023.

If you’re looking for a festive treat for the family and fancy a good laugh, make sure you book your tickets!