IS there any better way to cheer up a dreary January than with a trip to the pantomime?

Oh no there isn’t!

Bringing laughs, sparkle, and plenty of music and dancing Jack and Beanstalk is coming to Parr Hall in the new year.

After getting into big trouble with his mother after selling their hapless cow for a handful of beans, Jack’s dreams come true when they start to grow…and grow…and grow.

Audience members can join Jack on an adventure of a lifetime, as he outwits the giant and makes his fortune with a little help from his friends.

Families can expect a classic tale and a really exciting adventure, says director Frank Simms who will also be playing the role of Fleshcreep.

“It has got such a great journey throughout,” he told the Warrington Guardian.

“Even though we all feel that we know the story, it is great to see Jack really finding his feet and really growing into a human throughout the whole performance.”

Warrington Guardian: Frank Simms

Pantomime trips are special traditions for many families.

Talking about why this is, Frank said: “I think it is that traditional element.

“Pantomime fundamentally hasn’t changed for a long time and it means that if you are coming along as a grandparents or a very young child, you are always reminiscing in a way.

“There is that collective enjoyment where those that have seen many a panto year in and year out will still be laughing along to the jokes while people coming for the first time are discovering it all fresh and news.

“It is that combination of very different audience members that makes it very exciting for everyone on the stage, everyone involved in the venue, and everyone in the audience as well.”

For a few cast members, it will not be their first time performing in Warrington.

Mark Newell, who is playing Dame Trott, said: “I’ll tell you something about the Warrington audience, they are definitely up for it.

“In previous years, every show in Warrington has been more or less full and the audience has been great.

“They all get involved in the right parts.”

Milkshake! presenter Amy Thompson is also returning to the Parr Hall stage as Jill Crumble.

She said: “It is so lovely to be back and I’m excited to get going again.

“I have been here so many times with Milkshake! Live and the audiences here are incredible.

“They are always so loud and supportive.”

Jack and the Beanstalk will be at Parr Hall from January 5 to January 14.

Warrington Guardian: Amy Thompson