Nigel Havers to star in Nottingham panto

AN ALL-STAR cast has been lined up for Nottingham Theatre Royal's Christmas panto Jack And The Beanstalk.

Dashing actor Nigel Havers, famed for his roles in The Charmer and Chariots of Fire, is playing devilish villain Fleshcreep.

Meanwhile Emmerdale beauty Jenna Louise Coleman – popular among soap fans for her role as vicar's daughter Jasmine – will play the Princess.

A Royal Variety favourite – ventriloquist Paul Zerdin – will play the lead role of Jack.

"I am thrilled to be performing at Nottingham's Theatre Royal this Christmas," said Nigel, whose stage career has included appearances at The National Theatre, on the West End and in a recent touring production of Rebecca.

"Pantomime audiences are in for a real treat. This superb production is packed with entertainment to suit all ages.

"It's also a great opportunity for me to play the baddie Fleshcreep, so come along and feel free to boo and hiss in true panto style!"

Soap youngster Jenna Louise Coleman had a hugely successful time on Emmerdale, being nominated for Best Newcomer and Sexiest Female at the British Soap Awards and Most Popular Newcomer at the National Television Awards. She left the show last Christmas and is now set to star in BBC1 school drama Waterloo Road.

Paul Zerdin has appeared on three Royal Variety Performance and TV shows, including Late Night With Jerry Springer and ITV's This Morning.

Last year's Theatre Royal panto broke records, drawing more than £1m for Cinderella with Brian Conley.

Hopes are high Jack and the Beanstalk's will replicate the success.

Michael Harrison, executive producer of Jack and the Beanstalk, said: "We are delighted to have assembled an exciting panto cast."

Jack and the Beanstalk runs at the Theatre Royal Nottingham from Saturday, December 5, to Sunday, January 17, 2010. Tickets can be booked at the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0115 989 5555 or online at www.royalcentre-nottingham.co.uk