Northampton’s Royal & Derngate have announced that Tony Award-nominated star Keala Settle will head up the cast as the Fairy in this year’s spectacular Christmas pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk.

Settle said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be appearing in my first ever pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, at Royal & Derngate in Northampton. Panto is such a beloved institution in this country and I have always wanted to be a part of one. It’s going to be an incredible experience and just what we need for this 2022 festive season… I can’t wait!”

For Settle’s first ever pantomime, she will be joined by Horrible Histories’ Richard David-Caine, with Alex Lodge returning as Jack, and the hilarious Bob Golding returning as Dame.

Chief Executive at Royal & Derngate, Jo Gordon, said: “We’re delighted to have Keala Settle joining our panto cast this year, and to be working with the same great team that made Dick Whittington such a success last year. Christmas is such a special time of year, when many children are introduced to theatre for the first time, and Jack and the Beanstalk promises to be one of our greatest pantomimes ever!”

Written by Paul Hendy and co-directed by Emily Wood and Bob Golding, Jack and the Beanstalk promises to be spectacular, top quality entertainment with lavish sets, a hilarious script, knockout vocals and fun for all the family.

Jack and the Beanstalk will run from Friday 9 December 2022 to Monday 2 January 2023, with tickets available here.