Jersey Opera House to Stage First Professional Pantomime

The historic Jersey Opera House has announced it will stage its first-ever professional pantomime as part of its Christmas programme.

The venue said the new production would introduce an “exciting new professional strand” to the island’s long-standing pantomime tradition.

The show, Jack and the Beanstalk, has been written by Paul Hendy and will be co-produced with the theatre company Evolution Productions.

Chief executive Sebastian Warrack said bringing a professional pantomime to the venue marked an important milestone.

“Bringing a professional pantomime to Jersey Opera House for the first time is incredibly exciting and marks another important step in our future,” he said.

In previous years the theatre has hosted amateur pantomimes in partnership with the Jersey Green Room Theatre Company, including productions of Robinson Crusoe and Cinderella.

Warrack said working with Evolution Productions would allow the theatre to deliver a high-quality festive show while also creating opportunities for local performers.

“Pantomime is a much-loved theatrical tradition, and this partnership will help us create something truly special for Island audiences while opening professional opportunities for local talent,” he added.

The production will run from 18 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 at the Opera House.

A spokesperson for the venue said that while the show would be fully professional, the production team intends to involve Island performers through a young company cast and submissions from local professionals.

Further details about auditions for ensemble roles and young performers are expected to be announced later in the year. Opportunities for stage management and technical support will also be available.

Programme manager Rebecca Stanier said pantomime would broaden the theatre’s Christmas offering.

“When planning our festive programme, it was important to expand the range of work audiences can enjoy at the Opera House,” she said. “For many people, pantomime is their first experience of theatre, and introducing it here will provide a high-quality show for audiences during one of the busiest times of the year.”

Hendy said he was delighted to be bringing the production to the Island.

“We can’t wait to bring this spectacular pantomime to this fabulous theatre,” he said, adding that the team was also looking forward to discovering local talent in Jersey. 🎭