1st Night Photos: Hackney Dame Rowe Returns

After a year of darkness, Hackney Empire was back in some style last night (2 December 2010, previews from 27 November) – just in time for Christmas – with the return of its signature annual pantomime. This year’s offering, Jack and the Beanstalk, is once again written and directed by Susie McKenna, who has also assumed the role of creative director at the troubled east London landmark, and stars Laurence Olivier-nominated panto dame Clive Rowe. It runs until 9 January 2011.