Anne Hegerty will lead the cast of this year’s Fareham Live pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk, appearing alongside Josiah Eloi when the production opens this December.
Best known to television audiences as ‘The Governess’ on ITV’s The Chase, Hegerty will take on the role of the villain in the family favourite, marking her return to working with producers Imagine Theatre.
Hegerty said: “I last worked with the producers of the panto, Imagine Theatre, back in 2022 and they are a fantastic company so I cannot wait to be back with them. This will be my first time at Fareham Live and it looks like a great new venue. I have been a ‘goodie’ for the past few years in panto but the ‘baddie’ is the role that actually drives the plot – and I always get a song!”
She is joined by Josiah Eloi, who returns to Fareham Live by popular demand as Dame Trott after impressing audiences in last year’s pantomime.
Reflecting on his return, Eloi said: “Being asked to come back to Fareham this year is an honour! I can’t wait to get back down south to be part of a show that is already looking epic!”
Eloi’s previous performance was widely praised, with The Portsmouth News describing him as “sensational to watch… unmatched comedy gold.”
Sheena Hulme, Venue Director at Fareham Live, added: “Audiences absolutely loved Josiah as the Dame last year and we are delighted to welcome him back to Fareham Live for Jack and the Beanstalk. With Anne Hegerty joining the cast, this year’s Panto is already shaping up to be a giant festive adventure for families across the region.”
This classic tale follows Jack and his family as they struggle to survive, facing the terrifying presence of a greedy giant while deciding whether to sell their beloved cow.
As Jack embarks on his magical adventure after swapping the cow for enchanted beans, audiences can expect dazzling sets, show-stopping songs, and plenty of traditional pantomime fun.
Running from 11 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, the production promises to be a high-energy festive treat for audiences of all ages.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
