Jack and the Beanstalk will run at Richmond Theatre from Saturday, December 5, 2026, to Sunday, January 3, 2027.

Bonnie Langford will take on the role of Mrs Blunderbore, Dr Ranj will appear as the Spirit of the Beans, children’s favourite Basil Brush returns to the theatre’s panto as Farmer Basil, and comedian Lloyd Hollett will play Silly Simon.

Michael Harrison, chief executive of Crossroads Pantomimes, said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Bonnie Langford to our giant panto at Richmond Theatre, alongside Dr Ranj, Basil Brush and Lloyd Hollett, for what promises to be a fantastic festive season.

“Jack and the Beanstalk is a classic pantomime, and this brilliant cast will make it a Christmas to remember for Richmond audiences.”

Ms Langford, one of the UK’s most celebrated performers, currently stars as Mrs Bird in Paddington The Musical at the Savoy Theatre and recently returned to Doctor Who as Melanie Bush.

She previously marked the 120th anniversary of Richmond Theatre with her concert An Evening with Bonnie Langford.

Dr Ranj, a practising NHS doctor and regular on BBC’s Morning Live, is taking on the Spirit of the Beans for the first time.

This follows a series of previous pantomime appearances, including as The Magical Merman in Southampton and The Royal Physician in Bradford.

Basil Brush, the beloved television fox, returns to Richmond by popular demand.

Mr Hollett, a veteran of 25 consecutive pantomimes, reunites with both Langford and Dr Ranj.

Josh Brown, venue director at Richmond Theatre, said: “It’s a delight to welcome the one and only Basil Brush back to this year’s spectacular pantomime, joined by more fantastic names with Bonnie Langford, Dr Ranj and Lloyd Hollett.

“They will be an exceptional leading company, and I have no doubt that our wonderful Richmond Theatre audiences are going to love every magical moment of Jack and the Beanstalk.”

The production promises plenty of laughs, music, special effects and audience participation as Jack sets out to defeat the giant and claim his fortune.

Jack and the Beanstalk is produced by Crossroads Pantomimes.

Courtesy of Your Local Guardian | Richmond News