THE Wellington Arts Association has triumphed with their 50th anniversary pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk.

This year’s production, written in-house, ran from January 22-26, offering audiences an entirely original production of the classic tale.

With nods to soundtrack classics, including songs from Hairspray, Mamma Mia, Back to the Future, and the 2023 film, Barbie, all played by the band ‘Bean Jovi’, Jack and the Beanstalk proved to be a contemporary hit, enjoyed by an intergenerational audience.

Family Trott are our endearing protagonists, taking on a thrilling quest led by Jack (Madeleine David) to rescue Princess Jill (Micaela Sellick) from the giant Thundersnore (Alfie Ambrose and Andrew Norris) and his conniving assistant Fleshcreep (Andy Cooper).

Silly Simon (Richard Matravers) and his mother Dame Gertrude 'Gertie' Trott (Ian Jones) give stand out performances, bringing laugh-out-loud humour to the Wellesley stage.

For five decades, the Wellington Pantomime Group has delighted audiences with their blend of humour, song, and local talent, and this year’s show was no different.

Set in Wellingtonia, the show is every bit a local production, with nods to town politics and entertaining county quips. With vibrant costumes, dazzling sets, and the live pantomime band, the 50th-anniversary production is a true celebration of the group’s contribution to the arts and the local community.