PAIGNTON Pantomime Productions presents Jack and the Beanstalk at the Palace Theatre from Tuesday.

For the past 75 years the company has come up with some entertaining productions, drawing on top local talent, and this year should be no exception.

Director Iain Douglas explained: "As usual we have a lively show lined up that should please all followers of pantomime.

"We are using the same scriptwriter we have used for the last four years. Alan Frayn writes brilliant scripts which are bang up to date and very heavy on audience participation.

"No-one gets a quiet or relaxing time when watching Paignton panto these days.

"As a result, the kids always seem to enjoy it. As director, I get to watch every performance and I have noticed that since we started using Alan's scripts, the 'toilet run' has been reduced almost to nothing.

"Usually, when the scene is a bit boring or too long or the song is a bit slushy and romantic, all the kids suddenly want to go for a wee. Not so, with PPP anymore.

"The scenes are so well written and there is so much to shout out for the kids, that they are always kept interested and involved.

"Alan now provides scripts for hundreds of pantomimes across the UK and seems to have cornered the market and I am not surprised."

Audiences this year will be treated to everything from a walking talking giant to a pink and purple cow.

There is also a queen who prances around with a washing up glove on a stick, a man dressed as a woman, two women dressed as men, a dribbling Ratman, and a motley collection of strange characters all inhabiting the village of Peasleby on Green.

The hero of the piece, Jack, is played by Dean Breyley, making a welcome return to the production, and opposite him as Princess Primrose is Katie Twigger.

Dame Dottie Dibble is played by regular Alan Wagstaff and Simple Simon, the daft village idiot, is played by Steven Gale in his first stint in this role.

Iain added: "There is a cast of dancers, chorus and junior dancers totalling 35, along with a five-piece pit band.

"With the usual beautifully painted scenery and glittering costumes, it promises to be a real fun treat, and at reasonable prices too which always a big plus in these recession-hit times."

The show runs until January 3.

For tickets, call the box office on 01803 665800 or log on to www.pantomime.org.uk for updates and more information.