FEE, Fi, fo, fum, preparations are gathering pace for the Everyman's winter extravaganza, Jack and the Beanstalk.

Archers regular Brian Hewlett - Neil Carter in the long-running radio serial - swaps farming for frocks and country life for comedy antics as he takes on the role of Dame Lettitia Lansdown in the show (pictured right).

He has played at the Everyman, in Cheltenham n twice before and first played a dame in the early '70s.

He is, he says, looking forward to donning dramatic dresses and wild wigs once more!

He is joined by Gloucestershire actor, and former postman, Anthony Young and Everyman panto stalwarts John Bonner, Amanda Villamayor, Laura Whittard and Martin Hearn.

"This year's panto is going to be bigger and better than ever before," says theatre chief executive Philip Bernays.

"We are thrilled to welcome Brian to the role of dame and the rest of the line-up looks fantastic."

Like the beanstalk that springs up in Jack's back yard overnight, bookings for the production, which is sponsored by Kraft Foods, have been growing and growing. It opens on December 7 and runs until January 20 but you're advised to book seats as soon as possible.

Try the box office on 01242 572573 or www.everymantheatre.org.uk.