Emmerdale's Matthew Wolfenden to star as Jack in Sunderland Empire panto Jack & the Beanstalk

Emmerdale star Matthew Wolfenden will be scaling new heights in this year’s Sunderland Empire panto.

The actor will star as Jack in Jack and the Beanstalk when it brings some festive fun to the Empire stage from Friday, December 13 2024 to Sunday, January 5, 2025.

He’s best known for his long-running television role as David Metcalfe in ITV’s Emmerdale, as winner of the seventh series of Dancing on Ice, and as a guest presenter on This Morning, Loose Women, Lorraine, Loose Men, and for starring in The Real Full Monty.

Musical theatre-wise, he most recently performed as Buddy in Elf The Musical. Further stage credits include Aladdin , Saturday Night Fever , Romeo and Juliet and more.

Matthew said: “I am thrilled to be playing Jack in the iconic Jack and the Beanstalk this Christmas. Where better to spend Christmas than at the Sunderland Empire, one of the most beautiful theatres in the land. Can’t wait to see you there!”

Matthew will be joining Wearside panto favourites, the North East’s Queen of Comedy, Miss Rory as Dame Rorina Trott and panto funny man Tom Whalley as Silly Simon, both back by popular demand.

The duo are to return for a fifth year running and have proved a popular part of the festive season in Sunderland.

The Empire says this year’s panto will also feature 3D effects, as well as the usual slapstick comedy.

:: Jack and the Beanstalk is at Sunderland Empire from December 13 to January 5. Tickets are available online now at ATGTickets.com/Sunderland