Much-loved Cornish comedian Edward Rowe is taking on a new challenge this December – by performing as a pantomime dame for the very first time.

After two years of playing pirates (Long John Silver in Treasure Island, followed by Captain Hook in Peter Pan last year) this year’s Hall for Cornwall panto will see Ed – who also performs as the Kernow King – changing things up.

He will become the Dame in the 2024 Christmas production, Jack and the Beanstalk.

It is being produced by the same team behind Peter Pan in 2023, Cornwall Playhouse Productions, and promises to be a ‘giant’ spectacle, embracing the very best pantomime traditions while exploring Cornwall’s historic love affair with the stories and myths of giants.

Ed as Captain Hook last Christmas (Image: Hugh Hastings)

As an actor, writer, and Cornish comedy national treasure, Ed has devoted himself to Cornish culture, language and heritage.

He wrote, produced and starred in Trevithick!, Hireth, The Cornwall Coliseum, and The Cornish Caretakers, and his short Cornish language film, Mab Hudel (Magical Son) was a hit. Edward is also a co-writer and host of BBC Radio 4's sketch show Wasson Cornwall, where he stars opposite with Dawn French.

Nationally, he’s known for his roles in BAFTA-winning film Bait, Fisherman’s Friends the Musical, and TV roles in Alex Rider, The Witcher, House of the Dragon, Strike and Beyond Paradise.

For this production he will take on the role of Dame Trott, the hapless mum to the pantomime’s hero Jack.

Ed will be transforming himself into a pantomime dame this December (Image: Hugh Hastings)

When asked about the new role, he said: “Yes, that’s right, I'm back – and this time I’m playing the dashing Dame, Jack’s mum.

“It’s been firmly on the bucket list for me to take on the role of the Dame, following in such a strong pantomime tradition and with so many acting icons over the years donning a frock for a festive turn.

"If you’re ready to have nightmares about a six-foot Cornishman in a pretty dress, then come and see me and the brilliant team in what’s sure to be a riotous and heartwarming show.”

Jack and the Beanstalk runs from Friday, December 6 to New Year’s Eve (Tuesday, December 31) and tickets are on sale now at www.hallforcornwall.co.uk/whats-on/jack-and-the-beanstalk/

Ed in the 2023 production Peter Pan (Image: Hugh Hastings)

Julian Boast, Hall for Cornwall CEO and Jack and the Beanstalk’s executive producer, said: “We’re delighted Edward Rowe will step into the heeled shoes of pantomime Dame for the very first time – we know he'll be a perfect fit in our brand-new take on an historic Cornish fairytale.

“Expect a dash of Cornish mythology, a large helping of pantomime joy and all the magic and mayhem that you know and love.

“No matter how old you are, everyone wants to find some magic beans and live the life they’ve always dreamed – and this year, we’re celebrating just that. I can’t wait to see the Cornwall Playhouse sprout to life with giants, fairytales and another uplifting family adventure.”