The Alban Arena's latest pantomime opened last week, and has been delighting viewers during its first week on stage.

'Jack & The Beanstalk' had its first performance of the festive period on Friday (December 9) and will run until Monday, January 2.

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The Herts Advertiser were invited to this outstanding panto with ex-Eastenders cast Shaun Williamson delivering a superb performance.

He engages the audience, telling them not to boo, which of course got the kids (and adults) shouting even more.

St Albans & Harpenden Review: Shaun Williamson of 'Eastenders' and 'Extras' features in this year's production.Shaun Williamson of 'Eastenders' and 'Extras' features in this year's production. (Image: Ellie Kurttz)

As you would expect from The Alban Arena Panto, the traditional blue print is followed perfectly with a mixture of mishaps, funny one liners, the odd adult joke and of course the bench. This year zombies certainly scared both the cast and children in the audience.

Other members of the cast included Chanice Alexander-Burnett of the West End's Les Misérables, AJ Jenks of 'Saturday Night Fever', and Damian Patton and Lauren Chia of 'Frozen'.

Williamson, in particular, uses his voice and accent to truly bring his "baddie" to life during the performance.

St Albans & Harpenden Review: This year's 'he's behind you' sees cast members disappear one by one.This year's 'he's behind you' sees cast members disappear one by one. (Image: Ellie Kurttz)

Ian Kirby is truly hilarious and delivers a top performance by continuing to keep the audience engaged and entertained! And be warned, one lucky man will be selected by the love drone to be the love of our Dame's life!

The set is amazing with a giant beanstalk taking centre stage which is a tribute the back stage team who are unsung heros.

All the classic pantomime tropes return, including the much-loved line 'he's behind you', this time seeing the cast disappear one by one.

The Herts Ad's Gary Eve: "My advice is go and see this exceptional pantomime and one word of advice from one that knows…..TAKE AN UMBRELLA!"

St Albans & Harpenden Review: This year's show promises to be the 'most spectacular yet'.This year's show promises to be the 'most spectacular yet'. (Image: Ellie Kurttz)

To book tickets to this year's show visit the Alban Arena's website (www.alban-arena.co.uk).