As Summer continues to burn bright, The Arts Theatre Cambridge have revealed their principal casting for their upcoming pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk which we could not be more excited about.
Jack and the Beanstalk is written by Chris Jarvis with direction and choreography from Kevan Allen: a pair that have experience that will make this the most magical Christmas Pantomime! The show follows the Trott family who are struggling to make ends meet. When Jack attempts to sell their beloved cow Daisy, he is given a handful of magical beans. All of a sudden, these beans grow into a massive beanstalk! Can Jack climb the beanstalk, defeat the giant and save the people of Cambridge? Last years pantomime, Sleeping Beauty was of the highest quality, leading to The Arts Theatre Cambridge winning ‘Best Pantomime (550-900 seats) as well as nominations for ‘Best Choreography’ (Kevan Allen) and ‘Best Dame’ (Matt Crosby). All photo credits go to Matt Crockett. Discover who is coming to stage this year for a story that is full of gigantic laughs!
Returning to The Arts Theatre Cambridge pantomime for the 20th year is Matt Crosby starring as Dame Trott. As a nomination for ‘Best Dame’ at the UK Pantomime Awards 2026, Crosby is the perfect dame for any pantomime!
Also returning for their fourth Arts Theatre pantomime is Steven Roberts playing Jack Trott. Roberts have impeccable comedic timing and as Happy Harry (Sleeping Beauty 2025/6) was thoroughly entertaining to watch!
Joining Crosby and Roberts is Zweyla Mitchell Dos Santos starring as Princess Jilly. Zweyla is currently playing in Shakespeare’s Globe production of A World Elsewhere at the Sam Wannamaker Playhouse.
Actress, comic artist and writer Jessica Martin will also join the company as Fleshcreep, the evil sidekick to the giant. Martin will have just finished her run in 9 To 5 where she embodied Roz with comedy and great vocals. We can’t wait to see her again!
Another actor known to Rhombus Rota for her role earlier this year as Madge Hardwick in Top Hat, Emma Williams joins the cast as Fairy Sunshine. Williams is sure to bring magic and joy to her role, with a hilarious sense of humour.
Completing the principal cast is Stuart Simons as Merlin the Wizard, bringing magical fun after his previous role as Baron Hardup in The Arts Theatre’s 2023/4 pantomime Cinderella.
Jack and the Beanstalk opens on Friday 27th November 2026 and runs until Sunday 3rd January 2027. Book your tickets here!
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