It is being billed as "a giant" of a panto performance for all the family.

And as the cast for this year’s Marina Theatre pantomime - Jack and the Beanstalk - were making their way to Lowestoft to start rehearsals this week, a classic English tale is set to be staged.

With all the joy of the festive season, hilarious comedy routines, Daisy the Cow like you’ve never seen her before and the booming voice of Brian Blessed, panto fun for all will be provided.

Eastern Daily Press: Sam Callahan.Sam Callahan. (Image: Marina Theatre)

This year’s cast includes leading man Sam Callahan who rose to fame on the 10th series of the X-Factor and TV actor John Lyons who Lowestoft crowds will remember from Cinderella in 2021 and Sleeping Beauty in 2015.

Eastern Daily Press: John Lyons.John Lyons. (Image: Marina Theatre)

Terry Gleed is back this year with his usual comic charm and silly slapstick routines.

Eastern Daily Press: Terry Gleed.Terry Gleed. (Image: Marina Theatre)

Fire-eater and musical performer Alexander Lee will be taking the role of Fleshcreep and Jamie Jones bring a larger-than-life personality, as well as a wide array of flamboyant dresses, to this year’s Panto Dame – Jack’s mother Dame Trott.

A theatre spokesman said: "If you’re passing by the Marina Theatre or using the Café over the next two weeks expect to hear glimpses of pop and musical theatre songs drifting down from the rehearsal room while box after box of costumes and wigs arrive on lorries.

"The cast and creative team will turn this adventurous pantomime into a polished, highly spectacular, professional production in just 10 days of rehearsal."

Eastern Daily Press: The Marina Theatre panto will hit Lowestoft.The Marina Theatre panto will hit Lowestoft. (Image: Marina Theatre)

This year the Marina’s ever popular Signed performance - on Sunday, December 18 at 6pm - and Relaxed performance - on Wednesday, December 28 at 6pm - are back.

Plus, they have now introduced a signed and relaxed performance on Tuesday, December 20 at 2pm.

"Relaxed performances are for everyone but can be especially useful for audience members that may struggle to attend other performances," the spokesman added. 

"The house lights remain dimmed throughout the performance and the lights on stage are turned down.

"Audiences are free to leave and re-enter the performance whenever they like and normal theatre etiquette is relaxed.

"Visual stories and video tours will be available before the relaxed performance to prepare audiences for their visit."

Jack and the Beanstalk opens on December 13 and runs until January 1.

Tickets can be booked at the box office, on 01502 533200 or via the theatre’s website.