Fe-Fi-Fo-FUN as pantomime returns to The Beacon 

A giant festive adventure is coming to The Beacon in Wantage this Christmas, with professional pantomime company TaleGate Theatre productions bringing Jack and the Beanstalk live to the stage. 

The Beacon has not had a pantomime since Robin Hood in 2023, leaving a gap for festive family theatre in Wantage. However, panto is back and TaleGate Theatre productions will be entertaining families with a fun filled traditional pantomime packed with laughter, music and audience participation. 

Excitement has already been building up in the town. During October half term, Dame Trott, hero Jack’s dotty mother, visited Wantage to read to a crowd of eager children and their families. 

Cllr Helen Pighills, Cabinet Member for Community Health and Wellbeing at Vale of White Horse District Council, said “We are thrilled to welcome pantomime back to The Beacon. It is a treasured Christmas tradition, and we are delighted to bring it closer to families in our community. This return is a celebration of creativity and connection, and we can’t wait to share the joy of pantomime with a local audience of all ages.” 

James Worthington, Artistic Director of TaleGate Theatre Productions, said: “We’re delighted to be returning to Wantage with Jack and the Beanstalk this Christmas and we can’t wait to share the magic of this story with local families. Pantomime plays a vital role in sparking imagination and bringing communities together and we’re proud to be part of that tradition with The Beacon this season.”  

And you don’t need to wait until next year to find out what’s coming to the stage for the festive season, TaleGate Theatre Productions has announced they will be back in 2026 with The Snow Queen, which promises to be the coolest pantomime in town. 

Jack and the Beanstalk runs from 19 – 22 December. Tickets are available via The Beacon website or Box Office (01235 763456). 

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