A fun-loving drama teacher who won the hearts of the nation on Britain’s Got Talent will be hoping to win over a new audience when he appears at a Kent panto.

Entertainer Andrew Curphey will be drawing on his many years of experience when he takes to the stage at the Central Theatre in Chatham as Silly Billy this Christmas for a production of Jack and the Beanstalk.

Audiences can expect an enchanting journey filled with magical beans, a majestic castle in the clouds and a walking, talking, grumpy Giant, in this fun production.

Andrew said: “I love that for a lot of children it is their first time at the theatre and I’m sure they are going to love the show.”

The cast also features Holby City star and winner of the glitterball trophy on Strictly Come Dancing, Joe McFadden who will be playing Fleshcreep, the villainous servant of the Giant.

Returning by popular demand is the wonderfully naughty Alex Anstey who will be performing as the formidable Dame Trott.

Waving her magical wand across Medway audiences is CBeebies star Katy Ashworth, who will be bringing some sparkle to the stage as Fairy Fuchsia.

Laura Pigott will be preparing to climb the mountainous beanstalk in the title role of Jack.

Hannah Everest, who received a nomination for Best Principle Role, at the British Pantomime Awards this year for “Beauty and the Beast”, will be playing the role of Princess Jill, while McCallam Connell will be polishing his crown as he takes on the royal role of King Custard.

Cllr Nina Gurung, Medway Council’s cabinet member for heritage, culture and leisure, said: “It is never too early to start thinking about Christmas, and it is really exciting to see this year’s pantomime at The Central Theatre start to take shape with some of the brilliant cast members being announced.

“It is sure to be an amazing and magical show that children, and more than a few adults, across Medway will love.”

Tickets are on sale now from the Box Office on 01634 338 338 or click here.

Jack and the Beanstalk opens on Thursday 12 December 2024 and runs until Sunday 5 January 2025 at The Central Theatre.