Pantomime is back for Christmas in Blackpool - oh yes it is as cast prepare for production at the Joe Longthorne Theatre on North Pier

And it is the first time in the 157-year history of Blackpool’s famous North Pier that a Christmas panto will be presented.

Bosses from International Shows Ltd have joined forces with the team at the attraction to put on Cinderella at the newly named Joe Longthorne Theatre.

The show, which will star Britain’s Got Talent winner and Scottish singer-songwriter Jai McDowall as Prince Charming, will open on Tuesday, December 15.

Jai McDowall, who won the fifth series of ITV’s popular reality TV contest in 2011, has toured sell-out shows across the UK and is no stranger to panto.

The 34-year-old made his West End debut in early 2020, appearing in The Pirate Queen at the London Coliseum before embarking on a UK arena tour with Susan Boyle.

Having previously performed at North Pier, Jai said: “This is going to be great. I love Blackpool anyway and have always had a soft spot for it.

“I really didn’t think I’d be in a panto’ this Christmas so I am delighted Dominic and International Shows are able to make it work.”

The theatre will accommodate socially distanced audiences of up to 400.

Managing director Dominic Creighton was determined to see panto return to the resort and stressed safety was a key factor in putting together the production for the performers and audiences.

He said: “We are doing everything possible to make this a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Our cast will be in a bubble from rehearsals and throughout the run and we are strictly following all government measures, to give people some confidence but also something to look forward to.

“We are absolutely delighted to be announcing that a Christmas panto is

happening in Blackpool this year and that it will be taking place in such a special venue for the very first time.”

Tickets are on sale now from www.ticketsource.co.uk/blackpoolpiers