On sale now: Eastenders star and top comedian lead the cast at Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime in Hastings

Two of Britain’s best-loved TV stars are set to make this Christmas in Hastings fee-fi-fo-fun, as Richard Blackwood and Clair Norris lead the cast of Jack and the Beanstalk at Hastings White Rock.

Taking the lead as Jack is actor and comedian Richard Blackwood, while EastEnders favourite Clair Norris will be sprinkling fairy dust as the enchanting Fairy Sunshine. The production, presented by Polka Dot Pantomimes and The Guildhall Trust, opens on 11 December 2025, and it’s growing fast to be a tall tale of festive fun for all ages.

Blackwood, whose career has sprouted across TV, music, and the West End, is best known for his roles in EastEnders and Hollyoaks, as well as starring as Donkey in Shrek the Musical. Norris, meanwhile, is branching out from Albert Square to take on her first-ever panto role - and she’s sure to be a towering success!

Also returning to the White Rock stage are audience favourites Ben Watson as the silly but loveable Simon, and Tim McArthur as the villainous Fleshcreep (and director of the show). Rounding out the sky-high cast are Mark Two as Dame Tilly Trott - guaranteed to milk every laugh - and rising star Abi Ellis-Walter as the charming Princess Jill.

After last year’s record-breaking run, the White Rock team is promising a giant-sized helping of laughter, dazzling costumes, and toe-tapping tunes, with enough sparkle to light up the whole of Hastings!

The show runs from 11 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, with relaxed and BSL-signed performances on 27 December, plus special meet-and-greet shows on Sunday 14 and 21 December.

So why not leaf your troubles behind and make a day of it? Enjoy a stroll along Hastings’ seafront, grab some fish and chips fit for a giant, and plant yourself in the audience for a trip up the beanstalk at the White Rock. It’s the perfect Christmas treat for the whole family, and you’d bean mad to miss it!

For tickets and full performance details, visit whiterocktheatre.org.uk or call 01424 462280.