The hunt is on for local youngsters to star in Exeter Northcott Theatre’s 2025 pantomime,Jack and the Beanstalk, co-produced with Exeter-based theatre company, Le Navet Bete.

A team of six 7 to 11 year-olds will share a starring role, each appearing in 12 performances during the run. The role will include spoken lines, and some simple song and dance routines.

Jack and the Beanstalk will build on Exeter Northcott and Le Navet Bete’s year-on-year record-breaking success with annual pantomimes, after last year’s smash hit Cinderella. Laughs, thrills, spills, special effects and giant amounts of fun will combine in a spectacular production for all ages. It’s the story you know and love in a version you’ll never forget.

Martin Berry, Exeter Northcott Creative Director & Joint Chief Executive said: “There’s nothing quite like the magic of a homegrown panto — made right here in the South West, full of local talent, and packed with unforgettable moments for families of all ages. I can’t wait to see our brilliant young performers having the time of their lives on stage alongside a top-notch professional cast."

Last year’s pantomime, Cinderella, also featured local children, who shared the role of Quackers the Duck, described as “the absolute star of the show” by the PRSD.

Al Dunn, co-artistic director of Le Navet Bete said: "After the fantastic response to our open auditions for Cinderella last year, we know there’s a barn-full of brilliant local talent just waiting to shine. This year, six young performers will be taking on various characters, including the role of Dame Trott’s loyal companion Hamlet the Pig! We’re looking for energy, comic timing and bags of personality to bring it all to life. We can’t wait to see who’ll be sty-ling their way onto the stage this Christmas!”

Fun, workshop-style auditions will take place at the Barnfield Theatre on Saturday July 27. Anyone interested can find out more and register to audition by visiting exeternorthcott.co.uk. The closing date for registrations is Wednesday, July 16