Crewe is a top town – Oh yes it is!

Crewe has been hailed a town with a ‘big heart’ by panto stars set to tread the boards at the Lyceum Theatre.

Malcolm Lord and Ste Johnston, two veteran performers loved by panto regulars year after year, can’t wait to return in Jack and the Beanstalk opening December 12.

The pair have delighted Lyceum audiences with their hilarious performances for around 10 years each and Malcolm, who played Bungle in Rainbow, is heading back with his chum Ste for another crowd-pulling season.

“Crewe has such a big heart,” said Malcolm who returns to play the Dame. “Everyone  welcomes us with open arms. You can feel that this town loves its theatre and loves its panto. They come out ready for a good time.

“If I had the choice between Crewe or anywhere else for panto, I’d say Crewe every time.”

Ste, who plays Jack’s hapless brother Simon Trott, added: “All the great and the good have appeared at the Lyceum, it’s such a wonderful asset to the town. And the energy of the team, front and back of house, is only matched by that of the Crewe people. You can feel the warmth, lovely people.”

One Crewe caught up with the cast during a final rehearsal – and they were keen to know more about our mission, checking out our website and social media.

“One Crewe’s a really positive thing. I think Crewe has a bright future, added Malcolm. “When the landscaping takes place in the town centre, it will be much improved, a nice place for picnics and events.”

The Lyceum team says this year’s production is set to be one of their most spectacular yet, complete with towering sets, dazzling costumes, and a few magical surprises

Leading the adventure as Jack is Ollie Hart-Bradford (Grease at Kilworth House Theatre and Becoming Nancy at Birmingham Rep), joined by his feisty sidekick Beth Lyons (Fairytale of New York UK and Ireland tour) as Jill O’Dwyer.  David Gilbrook (National’s Theatre’s The Wind in the Willows and The Watermill’s Far From the Madding Crowd) joins as Jill’s bumbling dad Squire O’Dwyer, while Eliza Waters (Heathers the Musical at The Other Palace and Nativity the Musical at Birmingham Rep) promises to bring a sprinkling of panto magic as Fairy Flora.

They join the previously announced West End Theatre and TV star Jennifer Ellison as the villainous Poison Ivy.

Jack and the Beanstalk, promises a giant-sized adventure that’s set to climb to dazzling new heights. It’s also offered students at Crewe UTC the opportunity to help build props.

Make memories this festive season with this fun-filled festive cracker – the perfect treat for all of the family.

Jack and the Beanstalk plays from 12 December 2025 to 4 January 2026 to find out more and book tickets visit crewelyceum.co.uk or imaginetheatre.co.uk

Pics

Malcolm Lord and Ste Johnston check out One Crewe