Further casting decisions for the Mayflower Theatre's pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk have been revealed.

Alongside Britain’s Got Talent winners Ashley Banjo and Diversity, award-winning actor and stand-up comedian Kev Orkian will join the event.

Kev Orkian is set to return to the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton after an exceptional season spent alongside Mr Banjo and Diversity in the 2023 record-breaking pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Starting his illustrious career as a classical concert pianist, Mr Orkian formed a reputation as one of the premier comedy performers.

With a claim to fame in supporting some of the foremost names in UK comedy, he has graced stages around the world, including Sydney Opera House, the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, and Windsor Castle by Royal Appointment.

After participating in musicals, Mr Orkian took the leap into comedy and made it to the finals of ITV’s hit show Britain’s Got Talent in 2010.

Joining Ashley Banjo, Diversity, and Kev Orkian in the production will be actress Anne Smith.

Anne Smith, a veteran of UK theatre, boasts an impressive list of West End credits such as Evita, Chess, Mamma Mia!, and more.

Television and film credits also bolster her resume, with roles in Taggart, EastEnders, Birds of a Feather, Half Light and Cinderella.

Anne Smith has a knack for pantomime villains, having taken such roles around the country in the past.

Jack and the family Trott will be portrayed by Ashley Banjo and Diversity, Silly Simon by Kev Orkian, and Mrs Blunderbore by Anne Smith.

Crossroads Pantomimes, the biggest pantomime producer globally, led by Michael Harrison and the creative crew behind recent Mayflower Christmas successes, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, are staging Jack and the Beanstalk.

Michael Ockwell, Mayflower Theatre Chief Executive said, “We are delighted to not only be welcoming back Ashley Banjo and Diversity but also the hilarious Kev Orkian. In 2023, Kev had audiences laughing out loud, and we cannot wait to welcome him back to our stage this year.

"We are also excited to welcome Anne Smith who is a wonderful performer and will be an amazing Mrs Blunderbore.”

For three festive weeks of laughter, spectacle, special effects, and glittering charm starting on December 14 and ending on January 5, the Mayflower Theatre awaits audiences for Jack and the Beanstalk.

The Mayflower Theatre Box Office sales start on September 23 - call 02380 711811 or purchase online at mayflower.org.uk