BRADFORD panto legend Billy Pearce will make a return to the Alhambra stage in Jack and the Beanstalk.

Tickets go on sale to Bradford Theatres Friends Members Group and school bookers on Monday, February 28 at 10am and on general sale on Monday, March 7 at 10am.

Billy first topped the bill of the Alhambra’s annual panto in 1993, to acclaim from critics and audiences, and is now the city's panto king. In Jack and the Beanstalk, he returns, with his trademark madcap comedy and boundless energy, for his 23rd Alhambra panto.

The show is produced by Crossroads Pantomimes, the world’s biggest pantomime producer and the team behind the Alhambra's 2021/22 production of Sleeping Beauty, in which Billy starred alongside TV's Dr Ranj Singh. The show was originally planned for 2020 but postponed due to the pandemic.

Producers say Jack and the Beanstalk will feature the special effects that Bradford audiences have come to expect.

Michael Harrison, Chief Executive of Crossroads Pantomimes, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be on-sale with our production of Jack and The Beanstalk following the huge success of Sleeping Beauty last year. Billy Pearce is a true showman and comedy genius and I’m so pleased to once again welcome him back to Pantoland.”

Billy said: “Being back on stage last Christmas in Sleeping Beauty was a truly magical experience after a year away from performing. Christmas at the Alhambra Theatre is something very special, and we can’t wait to welcome our friends from across Yorkshire and beyond back to for another magical panto.”

Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres added: “With Billy back at the helm in this year’s panto, I’m sure that audiences of all ages will thoroughly enjoy another outstanding festive show in Bradford this year. There is huge affection for the Alhambra’s annual panto and we can’t wait to welcome theatregoers through our doors for Jack and the Beanstalk.

"There is a performance for everybody this festive season, with signed performances on December 15 at 2pm and January 15, 2023 at 5pm; audio described performances on January 5 at 2pm and 7.15pm; a captioned performance on January 8 at 5pm, and a relaxed performance on January 10 at 6pm.

"The relaxed performance will welcome everyone who would like to see the panto in a less formal atmosphere."

* Jack & the Beanstalk runs at the Alhambra from December 10 to January 22, 2023. Further casting will be announced later this year.

Call (01274) 432000 or visit bradford-theatres.co.uk