Masquerade panto opens at the Manoel

Jack and the Beanstalk, the pantomime produced by Masquerade Theatre Company, opened at the Manoel Theatre in Valletta last night.

Directed by Anthony Bezzina, Jack and the Beanstalk includes the participation of newcomers such as Paul Cuschieri, in the role of Jack, as well as renowned actors and personalities.

Manuel Cauchi is the narrator and Narcy Calamatta is the giant. There is also the notorious Jo Zette as the Dame interpreted by Ray Calleja.

The strong team responsible for the creation, design, production, music and choreography includes Malcolm Galea, Kevin Abela, Jes Sciberras, Gillian Zammit, Ernest Camilleri, Jackie Farrugia, Harry Borg and Chris Mifsud.

"Glitz and glitter, fur, feathers and fun: the costumes for this pantomime are outrageous. I have never designed costumes like these before," says costume designer Ernest Camilleri.

In Jack and the Beanstalk, the audience follows the hero Jack in his magical adventure up the beanstalk and meets many interesting characters including Graze the Cow, the fairy godmother, the Giant, the heroes, the villains, such as the evil Count da Pennies, and, of course, Dame Jo Zette.

Jack and the Beanstalk will be running until January 11. Tickets range from €10-17 (matinees) and €10-19 (evenings) and are available from the Manoel Theatre. One can book by calling the box office on 21246389, send an e-mail to bookings@teatrumanoel. com.mt or visit www.teatrumanoel.com.mt