Theatre News

Clive Rowe to direct and star in Hackney Empire 2026 pantomime

Rowe’s back!

Alex Wood

Alex Wood

| London |

27 January 2026

Jack Beanstalk
Jack and the Beanstalk artwork, © Hackney Empire

Clive Rowe will direct and star in the Hackney Empire pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk in 2026.

The festive staple is running from Saturday 21 November to Thursday 31 December.

The production follows Jack, whose obsession with large scale horticulture leads to some gigantic repercussions.

Rowe, who was announced as starring in Hadestown in the West End from March, will return to the Hackney Empire panto after directing Cinderella in 2025, continuing his long association with the venue’s annual festive productions.

The production forms part of the theatre’s 125th anniversary celebrations.

Further casting and creative team details will be announced in the spring. Tickets go on sale to Friends and Supporters of Hackney Empire today, with general sale opening on Friday 30 January.

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