Hastings – Polka Dot Pantomimes

White Rock Theatre, Hastings

White Rock, Hastings, TN34 1JX

Polka Dot Pantomimes and the White Rock are delighted to announce the Pantomime you’ve all BEAN waiting for this Christmas – JACK AND THE BEANSTALK.

Pantomime at the White Rock is always the highlight of the festive calendar and this year’s show promises to be bigger and better than ever as we present a GIANT of a pantomime suitable for the whole family.

Get ready to roar with laughter and cheer our hero Jack on his magical journey to Cloudland as he battles to save his best friend Daisy the Cow! As always there’ll be spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects and lots of audience participation.

With a fabulous cast featuring some familiar faces and the biggest Giant in Pantoland it won’t cost you a bag of magic beans but it will be FE-FI-FO-FUN for everyone, so book your tickets now!

BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE

Jack and the Beanstalk Programme

Polka Dot Pantomimes are delighted to welcome you to the White Rock, Hastings and this production of Jack and the Beanstalk. This is the second pantomime we have produced here and we hope that you will enjoy watching this exciting adventure as much as we have enjoyed producing it.

For the 2025/2026 season we are producing nine professional pantomimes in Spalding, Bolton, Grantham, Harpenden, Grays, Hastings, Bristol, Didcot and Christchurch. Our pantomimes are consistently of the highest standards and we are delighted that every year we get to work with exceptionally talented performers, wonderful theatre staff, dedicated and hard working backstage teams, and our amazing creative teams - all of whom put 100% effort into making our shows accessible and successful! We also love working with our three teams of childrens’ chorus and our wonderful chaperones – we had over 100 young people attend the auditions and the chosen 24 amaze us every day!

Since 2005 we have produced professional productions of Aladdin, Jack & The Beanstalk, Peter Pan, Robin Hood, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, The Jungle Book, The Wizard of Oz, Rapunzel, Dick Whittington and Beauty and the Beast.

We are delighted to be producing professional pantomime at the White Rock this year and would like to take this opportunity to thank you for supporting your local theatre – we appreciate you spending your time with us and choosing to watch this production.

THANK YOU!

From all of us at Polka Dot Pantomimes, we hope you enjoy this wonderful show and we would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2026!

History of Jack and the Beanstalk

Jack and the Beanstalk is an English fairy tale that’s been around for over 300 years! The first time it was written down was in 1734, when it was called The Story of Jack Spriggins and the Enchanted Bean. But historians think the story might actually be even older, passed down through generations by word of mouth, told around campfires or to children at bedtime.

The story is part of a bigger group of stories called “Jack Tales.” These tales are about a brave and clever boy named Jack, who always finds himself in exciting adventures. Jack faces giants, magical creatures, and tricky situations, but with his quick thinking and courage, he always finds a way to win!

Even though Jack and the Beanstalk was first written down in 1734, the story’s roots might go back as far as 5,000 years ago! It’s believed that Jack’s adventure has connections to another popular story called The Boy Who Stole Ogre’s Treasure. This story, which can be found across many different cultures, is about a brave boy taking on a giant or ogre to win a treasure—just like Jack does in the beanstalk story. Even Vikings shared stories of brave heroes like “Jack the Giant Killer” as they sailed across seas and raided new lands.

One of the reasons Jack and the Beanstalk has lasted for so long is because it became a fun Christmas tradition. In 1918, the first pantomime version of the story was performed in London at Drury Lane. These pantomimes are full of songs, laughter, and fun, and have since become a favorite way for families to enjoy Jack’s adventure every year.

Principal Cast

JACK - Richard Blackwood

Film credits include: Sen in DEUS (Goldfinch), Fordy in CURIOSITY KILLS (Jerico Lane Pictures), PC Benson in MEET THE GUVNORS (Fullwell 73), Junior in STILL WATERS (Still Waters the Movie LTD), Olu in KRISH AND LEE (Jaffa Films), Linton in OUTSIDE BET (Gateway Films), Russell in ANUVAHOOD (Gunslinger) and Richard in DON'T STOP DREAMING (Stereo Nation)

Television credits include: Nick in THE MADAME BLANCH MYSTERIES (Saffron Cherry Productions and Channel 5), Felix (series regular) in HOLLYOAKS (Lime Pictures and Channel 4), Billy D in PANDORA (Starlings Television), Levi in DEATH IN PARADISE (Red Planet Pictures for BBC1), Vincent (series regular) in EASTENDERS (BBC), Danny in CASUALTY (BBC), Harley in HARLEY'S ANGELS (Railto Films), Anton in BRITANNIA HIGH (ITV), Mickey Crush in DANI'S HOUSE (BBC), Guest Lead in ASK TV SKETCH SHOW (Roc Motion), Sir Lancelot in SHOOT THE MESSENGER (BBC), The Little Miss Jocelyn Show (BBC)

Theatre credits include: Christopher Alder in TYPICAL (Soho Theatre), Genie of the Lamp in ALADDIN (Hazlitt Theatre), Johnny in FRANKIE AND JOHNNY (Northern Stage), Muddles in SLEEPING BEAUTY (Paul Holman Associates), Donkey in SHREK (West End - Playful Productions), Brightie in CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF (Novello Theatre), John in ANGEL HOUSE (New Wolsey & Tour), Angel in THE UNEXPECTED GUEST (Bill Kenwright Ltd), Paul in THE BROTHERS (Hackney Empire)

FAIRY SUNSHINE - Clair Norris

Clair is best known for her series regular role of ‘Bernadette Taylor’ in popular BBC soap EASTENDERS. Other credits include Sky TV Series ‘Bloods’ and ITV ‘Tell Me Everything.

Clair is delighted to make her Pantomime debut at White Rock Theatre playing the role of ‘Fairy’.

FLESHCREEP - Tim McArthur

Tim McArthur is an actor, presenter, playwright and theatre director.

He is thrilled this year to be returning for his 8th year to The White Rock Theatre as Fleshcreep , he had such a great time last year been evil. But also crossing over to the other side of the rehearsal room to be the director of this year’s panto Jack and The Beanstalk. I love Hastings and can’t wait to tell the story of this well-loved British pantomime, in one of my favourite theatres The White Rock.

His acting credits include: For the past 5 years Demetrius in Eurovision Your Decision (RVT, Kings Head Theatre, Wonderville, ATS) Cook in Queens Laundry UK Tour for the Toy Project. Baker in Into the Woods and soloist in A Perfect Christmas (Cockpit); In Gay Company (RADA); Bathhouse and The Silence of the Lambs (Above the Stag); Assassins (Pleasance); Blair on Broadway (Arts); Company (Westcliff); Forever Plaid (UK tour); South Pacific (Aberystwyth); Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Chelmsford and Middlesbrough); Godspell (Millfield); As You Like It (Colchester); Another Country and Twelfth Night (Catford); You’re Gonna Love Tomorrow and The Golden Key (Greenwich); Fred Astaire: His Daughter’s Tribute (London Palladium); Dame in Aladdin, Sleeping Beauty, Dick Whittington and Cinderella (Hereford); Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Hayes); Aladdin (Chelmsford) and Charming Dick (Cockpit). From 2018 he has been Dame in Sleeping Beauty, Jack and the Beanstalk, Aladdin and Robin Hood at the White Rock Theatre in Hastings for Qdos. From 2022 for Imagine Theatre, Beauty and the Beast and Fairy Godmother in Cinderella. In 2024 he made his debut as a Baddie in Peter Pan. The legendary Captain Hook and he loved it. This year he returns to play the baddie in Jack And the Beanstalk.

Solo shows: Tim has performed his one-man show Mountains at 54 Below in NYC, St James Theatre, Jermyn Street, Above the Arts, Pride Arts Centre (Chicago); Tim McArthur and Chums (London Hippodrome); A New Direction (Theatre Lounge in Kuala Lumpur); Ding Dong (Purcell Room) Tim Sings Sondheim’s Divas (Tada Theatre, (NYC), UK tour, Above the Arts. Several Seasons at Drews On Halstead (Chicago). He has supported Helen Lederer (UK tour); Graham Norton (Hilton); Julian Clary (Savoy) and, for three years has hosted monthly concerts for the Sondheim Society; appeared in Sondheim Unplugged (Hippodrome) and SingEasy (Pianoworks, London) and also the presenter on “Stages The Musical Theatre Festival” on the Explorer of The Seas

Television credits include: EastEnders; Ginger Beer and The Richard Blackwood Show. He appeared in two of Passengers Music Videos in 2020. And a commercial for Bwin (Spain)

Writing credits include: Small Town Boys (Union Theatre), A Word for Mother (Upstairs at the Gatehouse), Deeper and Deeper (Union Theatre), Puss (Wonderville) Facing Time – recorded by Fireside Mystery Theatre Company (NYC) Control (Hen and Chickens, Bridge House and ATS) Readings of A Word For Mother (Cockpit Theatre) and No Place Like Home (ATS). Confessions over Toys (Playground Theatre). For several years he has written Halloween Spooky walks for Lauderdale House. His sitcom Dressing Room one was optioned by Free at Last TV. He is the creator of Eurovision Your Decision.

Radiso Credits include: A Chorus Line, Sweet Charity, Fiddler on the Roof and Sweet Charity.

Presenting credits include: The Curtain Up Show (Resonance 104.4 FM); The Green Room (Encore Radio); West End Wilma Awards (2014–2024); West End Eurovision Red Carpet (2013–2014); West End Christmas (St Pauls), BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC London, Gaydar Radio and Tim McArthur Interviews on Theatre Radio. He also presents Healthy Acting on Mensradio Station and on Box Office Radio.

He has interviewed live on stage, Biggins, Bonnie Langford, Harriet Thorpe, Helen Lederer, Janie Dee, Gyles Brandreth and in 2021 he toured with Duncan James in Duncan and Tim’s Big Camp Show.

Sister Mary: Tim created the comedy character Sister Mary 2023- On Ya Knees, Mary’s Playtime (Ed Fest – Frankenstein’s 2018/17); Celebrity Nun (Gilded Balloon); On Your Knees (Jermyn Street); Sister Mary Pops In (New Space Theatre – Cape Town) and Don’t Tell Mama (NYC); When Will I be Famous (BBC) Elton John’s Christmas Party and regularly at Soho Nights at The Phoenix. Sister Mary’s Playtime at New Jersey Rep, Ice Palace (Fire Island), and Red Eye in NYC. Sister Mary made her acting debut playing Mother Superior in Nunsense at the Landor Theatre. In summer 2024 Sister Mary played a two month summer season at The Red Room in Provincetown (USA) and the Laurie Beechman Theatre in NYC. Most recently she took part in Janie Dee’s Beautiful World Cabaret Season at Crazy Coqs and Charring Cross Theatre.

Recording credits include: Fred Astaire: His Daughter’s Tribute, Bathhouse, Dangerous Cabaret and Tim’s debut album, Don’t Be Anything Less.

Twitter @Tim_McArthur

Instagram mcarthur.tim

SILLY SIMON - Ben Watson

Ben trained at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and the National Youth Theatre. For over a decade, he has been proud to have appeared as the comic at White Rock. Previous pantomimes include Aladdin, Beauty and The Beast, Cinderella, Dick Whittington, Peter Pan, Robin Hood and Sleeping Beauty.

His theatre credits include: Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em (UK Tour), Around the World in 80’s Days (Blackpool Grand), I Capture the Castle (Watford Palace/ Bolton Octagon), The Jungle Book (Birmingham Stage Company), Peter Pan (Beck Theatre, Hayes), Jack and the Beanstalk (Watford Palace), Cinderella (Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds), Beauty and the Beast (Blackeyed Theatre), Pinocchio (UK Tour), Who’s Harry? (Fringe First Winner - Pleas-ance, Edinburgh Festival), The Blues Brothers Party (UK/International Tours), Mania - The ABBA Tribute (New Theatre, Oxford), Eurovision Your Decision (Wonderville, West End), A Midsummer Night’s Dream/The Comedy of Errors (Kings College, Cambridge), Mrs Warren’s Profession (Theatre Royal Bath), Bedroom Farce (Upstairs at the Gatehouse), Miss Julie (Barons Court), WW1 at Home (BBC, UK Tour), and The Postman and the Poet (Original Cast Re-cording). Rehearsed Readings for My Beautiful Laundrette (Duchess Theatre) and Carnaby Street. Alongside performing, he has written and directed for Newsrevue (Pleasance Beyond, Edinburgh Festival/London) and written for The Treason Show (Ko-media, Brighton). He is also the creator of comedy shows The History of (Almost) Everything and Mind the Monsters (Oxford Playhouse).

He has directed six Summer Youth Projects at White Rock: Oliver!, Grease, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Matilda, The Wizard of Oz and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He is also Head of Drama at the White Rock Youth Theatre. Film and Television credits include The Mystery of Marilyn Monroe (Netflix), Ten Minutes (Cannes Film Festival), In The Mix (Filmlab), Derek's Thoughts (MOFILM winner, Cannes), Heroes and Villains and Guest Presenter appearances on CBBC.

TILLY TROTT - Mark Two

Mark is really excited to be appearing at the fabulous White Rock Theatre here in Hastings for Polka Dot Pantomimes. This will be Mark’s 6th consecutive year playing Dame for Producer Darren Maddison and he promises a wildly enthusiastic and energetic performance as DAME TILLY TROTT in this year’s gigantic production of “Jack and the Beanstalk”

Born into a theatrical family, Mark has been actively involved in professional entertainment from the tender age of seven, making his television debut in a program called “All Your Own” while only eleven years old.

Mark began his theatrical career as half of comedy double act “Nicholas & Nickelby” at Butlins in the theatre revue company on the Tommy Trinder Show.

During his busy and very varied career, Mark’s continued association with television, theatre and cabaret has culminated in three momentous appearances at “The London Palladium” – Also The Victoria Palace and most major theatres throughout the U.K. appearing alongside some of the most prestigious names in show business including - Danny La Rue, Jim Davidson, Ron Moody, Benny Hill, Charlie Drake, Frankie Howard, Ken Dodd, Neil Morrissey, The Nolan Sisters, Ruth Madoc, Sherrie Hewson, The Chuckle Brothers and many more.

In 1988 Mark became well known throughout the UK and on the continent, with the release of his record “HOLIDAY ROCKIN” Touring Holiday Centers and Cabaret Venues and Festivals and Featured on numerous Television and Radio broadcasts.

But Pantomime is Mark’s greatest Love and Passion, and with over 50 Professional Pantomimes to his credit, he has worked with some of the most reputable theatrical companies including :- LESLIE GRADE - JIM DAVIDSON – QDOS - U.K. Productions

P.H.A. – PANTONI – SPILLERS Pantomimes – TONY PEERS Pantomimes – POLKA-DOT Pantomimes – REGAL Entertainments and Many More. playing various roles including - Widow Twankey, Sarah The Cook, Dame Dolly Trott, Dame Dolly Doughnut, Ravishing Rita (Ugly Sister) Buttons, Idle Jack, Billy Goose, Ships Captain, Chinese Policeman, Brokers Man. Other roles include-- The Cowardly Lion in “The Wizard of Ozz,” Daddy Warbucks in “Annie” and Billy Flynn in “Chicago.”

Marks COSTUMES are exclusively designed and Made by Himself and wife Dee, with This Year’s Creations set to Dazzle, Tantalize and Titillate your Optical Senses and Tickle Your Fancy with Mind Blowing Extravagance.

Mark writes all his own material and spends most of his time running his family Production company “Mark Two Character Productions” Writing, Producing and Directing Lavish Production Shows, Pantomimes and Ultra Violet Specialities for the Entertainment and Leisure industry. www.marktwocharacterproductions.com

PRINCESS JILL - Abi Ellis Walter

Abi is so excited to be back with Polka Dot Pantomimes for her second year after playing Rapunzel last Christmas. She has always loved performing in panto since a young age growing up and, since graduating, has been in both Easter and Christmas pantos, including The Little Mermaid, Snow White and Rapunzel. This will be her first time playing Jill in Jack and the Beanstalk and her first visit to Hastings so she is looking forward to spreading some panto magic this Christmas! She hopes you enjoy the show and have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

Training: Laine Theatre Arts (Foundation Diploma), Bird College (First Class Honors Degree, Dance and Musical Theatre).

Credits include: Dancer, Matt Felix ‘Leave’ Music Video (2022), Thea, Spring Awakening (2023), Mainstage Dancer, MOVE IT (2023), Ensemble, The Little Mermaid (2023), Ensemble/Cover Evil Queen, Snow White (2023), Ensemble, Rapunzel (2024), Rapunzel, Rapunzel (2024), Dancer/Assistant Choreographer VE80 Celebration (2025).

Ensemble

ELLIE SHORT – PROFESSIONAL DANCER/UNDERSTUDY

Ellie is excited to be taking part in this year’s pantomime- Jack and the Beanstalk. This will be Ellie’s professional debut, of which she is thrilled!

Ellie’s passion for the Performing Arts was sparked at the young age of 5 which began at a local theatre group within her hometown of Brighton. Since then, she has continued to grow in countless ways, all of which have brought her to her third and final year at Emil Dale Academy, where she continues to learn and grow.

Ellie would love to thank all the amazing teachers and the inspiring peers that she has met along the way. All have encouraged her, supported her, and taught her. She would also love to say a special thank you to both of her parents, who have supported this venture and consistently cheered at the side lines.

Lastly, she would love to say thank you to all of the incredible cast and creatives who have made this magical show such a joyous experience to be a part of.

JARED STANTON – PROFESSIONAL DANCER/UNDERSTUDY

Jared is currently in his final year of training at Sharpe Academy in London, where he is working towards his Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre & Acting. His professional credits to date include Dancer in Divas London (Tattershall Castle), Dancer in Cinderella at the Gorleston Pavilion Theatre in Great Yarmouth, and Blockman Character for an EE online commercial.

Credits while training include Charles in Pippin, Mal in The Addams Family, Donkey in Shrek the Musical, and ensemble roles in Little Shop of Horrors, Alice in Wonderland, and A Monster Calls.

Jared is excited to be performing in Jack and the Beanstalk and is very much looking forward to his time on stage at the White Rock Theatre in Hastings.

STELLA RUTHERFORD – PROFESSIONAL DANCER/UNDERSTUDY

Stella is over the moon to be making her professional debut in this year's pantomime! Currently in her final year of training at Emil Dale Academy, this opportunity feels like a full-circle moment. As a child, Stella performed with Polka Dot Pantomimes and remembers looking up to the professional dancers on the stage. Now, being back with the same company in a professional role is a real 'pinch me' moment.

This milestone wouldn't have been possible without all the teachers, past and present, who have supported her along the way. She also wants to say a big thank you to all the students at drama school who continue to inspire her every day. And of course, none of this would have been possible without the love and support of her family.

Stella is so excited to share the magic of this show with you and wants to thank all the cast and creatives, especially those working so hard behind the scenes, for making this such a joy to be a part of.

JAMIE POWELL – PROFESSIONAL DANCER/UNDERSTUDY

Jamie trained at Sharpe Academy in London, graduating in 2023 with a Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre & Acting. His professional credits include Dancer on board the Costa Pacifica (Peel Entertainment & Costa Cruises), Dancer on board the Caribbean Princess (Princess Cruises), Character & Parade Performer at Disneyland Paris, and Ensemble / Understudy Prince Charming in Cinderella at Leeds Carriageworks Theatre.

During his time in training, Jamie’s performance credits included Mark in A Chorus Line, Peter in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Ted in Bonnie & Clyde, and Emmett in Legally Blonde.

Jamie is thrilled to be performing at the White Rock Theatre in Jack and the Beanstalk, and he hopes you all enjoy this magical pantomime adventure!

MATTHEW KING – GIANT BLUNDERBORE/ PROFESSIONAL DANCER

Matthew is a performer from Cambridgeshire. He trained at Midlands Academy of Dance & Drama and received the prestigious Lionel Bart Award scholarship.

Matthew has had a career in theatre & screen. He started out in musical theatre and in the last year he has moved onto more screen appearances. However, Matthew’s true love is being on stage and doing his favourite thing pantomimes.

Theatre credits : Brad in Rocky horror (Madd college) Ensemble in Like a Virgin ( Mark Hedges) Jack and the Beanstalk ( Redgrave Theatre ) Ensemble in Half a sixpence (Foundation course) Matthew has been part of professional Pantomimes all over the country and is very happy to be back this year with Polka Dot for the third consecutive year performing in Jack and the Beanstalk.

Film/TV credits : Matthew is going to be featuring in an exciting film which comes out in March called “Project Hail Mary” featuring Ryan Gosling. You might have seen Matthew on TV shows such as Silent Witness, Eastenders, Call the Midwife. He is very happy that for the first time he will be soon on Netflix in the new series of “The Capture”

Matthew is very excited to be here this year in Hastings and can’t wait to spread the Christmas cheer with you all. Hope you enjoy the show.

Chorus (Red Team)

FREYA JORDAN

EMILY LEDSHAM

FREDDIE LOFTUS

ARABELLA NORTON

CHARLOTTE WILKINSON

ESME BURGESS

ROXIE SCOGINGS

PEIGHTON DAVIS

Chorus (Blue Team)

POPPY BALL

SOPHIE MARTIN

FRED GRANT

PIPER OAKLEY

DOLORES CRICHTON

LILY TODD

EVIE OAKMAN

MADDISON TOWNEND

Chorus (Yellow Team)

EVALYN COUNDLEY HOWARD

EDEN BREWER-JOHNSON

LACEY MAE HALL

HARRY GENTRY

LUKE CHARLESWORTH

LOLA MINDIOLA JOUBERT

ISLA SMITH

EVIE DADSON

Production Team

DIRECTOR: TIM MCARTHUR

CHOREOGRAPHER: VIKKI BUSSELL

WRITERS: DARREN MADDISON, DARREN O'SULLIVAN, LUKE ATWOOD & ALISTER WILMOTT

MUSICAL SUPERVISOR: STEVE HESSION

SCENERY: CROSSROADS

COMPANY STAGE MANAGER: CHARLOTTE FRENCH

DEPUTY STAGE MANAGER: MARCUS GROVE

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER: IN HOUSE (WHITE ROCK)

WARDROBE SUPERVISOR: MICHELLE TAYLOR

Stage Team

BUILDING & TECHNICAL MANAGER: ADAM HARKIN

DEPUTY BUILDING & TECHNICAL MANAGER: STEVE MANSER

SENIOR TECHNICIAN: ANTHONY PARKER

STAGE CREW: ADAM HARKIN

STAGE CREW: STEVE MANSER

STAGE CREW: AXAL KELLY

STAGE CREW: TOBY MANSER

SOUND: DEL EL-MEZOGHI

FLYMAN: DICKON SAVAGE

FLYMAN: GRANT DYER

FOLLOW SPOT OPERATOR: NATHAN POWERS

FOLLOW SPOT OPERATOR: SUZIE McDERMOTT

LIGHTING DESIGNER: CLIFTON HOLLISTER

LIGHTING & AV OPERATOR: ANTHONY PARKER

Polka Dot Pantomimes

COMPANY DIRECTOR: DARREN MADDISON

PRODUCER: CATHERINE MAYER

TECHNICAL PRODUCER: BEV A.M. PASKELL

FINANCE: HELEN WRIGHT

CREATIVE PRODUCER: TONY MAYER

ADMINISTRATOR: ELAINE BARRON-CLARK

HEAD OF CASTING: LUKE ATTWOOD

SOCIAL MEDIA: JOEY RODAK

MUSICAL SUPERVISOR: STEVE HESSION

Special Thanks

A big THANK YOU to Burnt Toast SFX – Flying and Special Effects

Burnt Toast SFX is the fastest-growing theatre special effects company in the UK. They specialise in designing and creating bespoke flying and special effects that bring unforgettable theatrical moments to life. From concept through to delivery, our dedicated team crafts innovative designs with precision, detail, and imagination which continue to stun and amaze audiences. Their effects can be seen across the UK and Europe and include London’s West End award winning production of ‘Stranger Things’ at The Phoenix Theatre.

Burnt Toast SFX have thoroughly enjoyed working with White Rock Theatre and Polka Dot again, this year. It is always a privilege to help shape the magic that audiences experience.

@burnttoastsfx | www.burnt-toast.co.uk