Jason Manford and Ben Nickless will reunite for this year’s pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk at the Manchester Opera House, following their hugely-popular double act there in last Christmas's Peter Pan. The season is also being extended by eight performances, from December 2 through to New Year's Eve.
Stand-up comedian, actor, singer and TV presenter Manford will take the title role, with Opera House panto favourite Nickless as Silly Simon.
Manford said: “I joked about Peter Pan being my "farewell debut" in panto, but in truth I had such a wonderful time last Christmas that I was itching to do it again. To be invited back with such a fun and collaborative company and alongside my new best mate Ben – well, how could I say no?"
Britain’s Got Talent finalist Nickless, returning to the Opera House for his fifth consecutive year, said: “I’m delighted to be coming back and especially about convincing Jason to come back with me. Jason and I had such a great time working and laughing together last year."
Robin Hawkes, theatre director of the Palace and Opera House, said: “Last year was our most successful pantomime to date, with thousands of visitors relishing what quickly became a show-stopping partnership. The entire show was a runaway success, so we're thrilled these two will be reunited on our stage this year."
More info and tickets here