Having been nominated for Best Panto in the UK Pantomime Awards for its 2025 production of Dick Whittington, Lighthouse Poole is inviting dancers to audition for the ensemble cast of Jack and the Beanstalk, its latest in-house produced pantomime this Christmas.
A rare chance to gain valuable experience working with the professional cast for the entire run, the auditions are entirely open – everyone will be seen.
“We are looking for hard working, dedicated young dancers, who are also keen on acting and singing, to join the ensemble in our magical family pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk,” says assistant producer Ashton Corbin.
Jack and the Beanstalk is a Lighthouse production from the same team that successfully delivered Dick Whittington last year, as well as Pantomime Award-winning productions of Aladdin and Cinderella in recent years. Written and directed by CBeebies star Chris Jarvis, production design is by James Smith with choreography by Daniel Donaldson Todd and musical direction by Adam Tuffrey.
Young Ensemble
We are looking for four young dancers aged between 16 and 19.
Please note the following criteria:
- You must be between the ages of 16 and 19 by 26 November 2026.
- Applicants must be available to start rehearsals from Thursday 26 November 2026, and be available for the full schedule of performances from Thursday 10 December 2026 until Sunday 3 January 2027 inclusive (one day off in every six).
- Successful candidates must be able to commit to the entirety of the rehearsal and performance periods, and we are unable to offer any time off during the engagement.
- Applicants must have strong dance technique (Classical Ballet and Jazz recommended).
- No professional experience required
- Fee: expenses of £250 per week (pro rata, 5.5 weeks).
Dancers/Ensemble
We are looking for four triple threat professionals with a strong dance ability who will form our professional ensemble and will understudy our main cast. Performers will be exceptional dancers and singers, will understudy key roles, and have the chance to play supporting characters in the show.
Please note the following criteria:
- Your audition will include reading script sides given on the day, and a chance to show your vocal ability with a 60-second song. Please bring sheet music/track.
- Applicants must be available to start rehearsals from Thursday 26 November 2026, and be available for the full schedule of performances from Thursday 10 December 2026 until Sunday 3 January 2027 inclusive (one day off in every six).
- Performing Arts training preferred but not essential.
- Fee: £3,200 buyout fee (accommodation/travel is not provided).
Auditions are being held on the evening of Thursday 16 April in Function Room 1 at Lighthouse Poole. The routine will be taught on the day, and applicants should be prepared to be present for up to two hours. Successful applicants will receive further details regarding audition time slots.
To register interest email casting@lighthousepoole.co.uk stating:
- Which role: Young Ensemble/Professional ensemble
- Name
- Contact details (email and phone)
- Previous training or link to Spotlight
- Headshot (can be taken on phone)
- Performance CV
Deadline for registration is 5pm on Thursday 9 April.
Please note, hopeful applicants must register as walk-ups on the day will not be accepted.