Jack and the Beanstalk

Let us entertain you - Kirsty Podlaski as Jack and Adam Gonet as Simple Simon

As children's presents get more expensive and more sophisticated, they still love a trip to the panto.

Altrincham Garrick's offering this year is Jack and The Beanstalk, which sees Kirsty Podlaski and Adam Gonet playing two of the lead roles, Jack and Simple Simon.

Kirsty described Jack as the "hero" of the piece and Adam said he'll be on a mission to make 'em laugh as "the pantomime comic."

When you go to these shows it seems like chaos on stage but in reality, the 'chaos' unfolding before your eyes is planned and executed with military precision.

What's the secret of being a good panto performer?

Kirsty said: "I think the secret of being a good panto performer is really understanding your place in the panto. For my particular role, I really do have to become that character, push the storyline, remain somewhat serious."

Adam added: "The comic characters have to be able to communicate with (and handle) an audience, ad-lib where necessary, and ensure that the high levels of pace and energy required throughout never drop."

Many actors, amateur and professional, say that children are often the harshest critics. Is panto still thought of as children's theatre?

Adam said: "Pantomime is primarily associated with children's theatre, yes, however you have to remember that there are just as many adults and teens at the shows as there are young kids. It is very much a family show. The traditional family-friendly panto the Garrick puts on is very much aimed at and suitable for the whole family. I think that is the secret to its success."