Anne Hegerty and Josiah Eloi to star in Fareham panto JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
It has been announced that TV personality and star of ITV’s The Chase Anne Hegerty will star alongside panto dame Josiah Eloi, back by popular demand, in Fareham Live’s giant panto Jack and the Beanstalk from 11 December 2026 - 3 January 2027.
Marking her thirteenth year on stage in a Christmas panto, Anne 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!”
Joining her on stage is Josiah Eloi, who wowed audiences in his dame debut at Fareham Live last year and now returns by popular demand as Dame Trott. The Portsmouth News praised his performance as “sensational to watch… unmatched comedy gold.”
Explaining that pantomime was his inspiration to pursue a career in acting, Josiah is delighted to be returning to Fareham to play Dame Trott and 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!”
Venue Director at Fareham Live, Sheena Hulme, said: “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.”