This year’s Chesterfield Theatres pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk is on course to reach rarely seen heights as the production will star BBC One’s Gladiator, Giant.

Standing at over six feet tall, IFBB Pro League bodybuilder Jamie Christian-Johal, aka the dueling Giant from the Saturday night hit show, will bring his towering presence to the Winding Wheel stage from 5 December when he steps into the role of the larger-than-life pantomime Giant.

With menace and mayhem, audiences can expect a twist in the tale as Jack Trott’s giant enemy will be ready to defeat any contenders getting too close to the magical beanstalk.

Away from Gladiators, Jamie has appeared on Comic Relief, This Morning, Blue Peter, and Celebrity The Weakest Link in addition to appearances in live events such as Truckfest and Snap Fitness.

He was crowned the British Superheavyweight Champion in 2015, and in 2018, he earned his IFBB Pro status. Since then, he’s competed internationally, securing a top six finish at the 2022 Arnold Classic.

Jack and the Beanstalk runs throughout the festive period until 4 January 2026. Starring alongside Jamie is the very funny Patrick Monahan as Simon Trott. A comedy favourite at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, with his blend of high-energy performance and hilarious topical observations, he continues to be a huge hit across the UK. Once seen, never forgotten, Patrick guarantees an effortless connection with the young and old, making him a favorite comedian for everyone.

Pantomime producer Paul Holman, for Paul Holman Associates, said: “It’s fantastic to have Jamie on board, bringing his incredible strength and energy to the show. You can’t ask for a bigger or better Giant so we’re very excited to see the character grow!”

He also mentioned: “Patrick Monahan is the perfect choice to bring the comedy, ensuring there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.”

And it won’t just be magic beans in this pantomime production of Jack and the Beanstalk. Magician Nicholas Lee and his assistant Rachel O’Hare will bring the battle of good over evil to life with their unique spells and wizardry in the roles of the devilish Fleshcreep and the enchanting Spirit of Cloudland. Will they have the power to shrink a Giant? There’s only one way to find out!

Pantomime audiences, ready? Tickets are on sale for Jack and the Beanstalk at: https://chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/

Find out more about upcoming events and activities in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/