A socially distanced pantomime set to entertain families this Christmas has been cancelled.

A performance of Jack and The Beanstalk at Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells was due to start from tomorrow.

But instead refunds will be issued to everyone with a ticket.

The announcement came in anticipation of the news that Kent will remain in Tier 3.

In a statement Assembly Hall Theatre said: "We are heartbroken to announce that this year's panto will no longer be going ahead in line with the government's announcement.

"We are so disappointed but we promise we'll be back bigger, stronger and more sparkly than ever next year."

Councillor Jane March, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Leisure and Economic at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council said: "We had been hoping that things may have turned around but sadly it’s not to be.

"I know that the team involved in the production are beyond disappointed that the show is off as they were so looking forward to bringing some Christmas cheer to the audiences."

All tickets will be automatically refunded.

Although the panto has been cancelled, the theatre is still looking forward to 2021.

Producer, Carole Winter added: "We understand that it has to be done but nevertheless it’s a sad day for the theatre, panto is a quirky and joyous Christmas tradition, and for many children it is the first time they encounter the magic of theatre.

"We must look forward to the day we reopen our theatre, and look forward to presenting a full scale, all singing, all dancing Snow White in 2021."

It also hopes to release details of the spring season programme and the launch of CIRCLE, a new theatre membership scheme, later this week, with a full programme launch in January.

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