Eleanor's wish of becoming a panto fairy comes true

Eleanor Chaganis is set to cast a spell over audiences at the Customs House, South Shields, later this year.

The 24-year-old will be the panto fairy in Jack and the Beanstalk when it runs at the Mill Dam venue, in South Shields over the festive period.

She won the part after theatre bosses launched a ‘Find the Fairy’ scheme and held open auditions.

London-based Eleanor, who attended Guildford School of Acting, says she’s looking forward to being part of ‘the little panto with the big heart’.

She said: “I can’t wait to play the fairy in the Customs House panto.

“It’s my first big panto role and I’m delighted to be in my hometown.”

Eleanor is no stranger to the Customs House stage having played Maggie in last year’s smash hit Geordie the Musical and appeared in the venue’s children’s Christmas favourite Santa’s Naughty Elf.

Customs House executive director, Ray Spencer, who also co-writes, directs and stars in the show, said: “We’re really pleased to have Eleanor on board this year for Jack and the Beanstalk.

“It’s great to once again give an opportunity to local talent in their hometown theatre.”

Auditions took place back in May and the panel were so impressed with the calibre they held call backs before choosing Eleanor for the role.

Ray added: “We’ve held open auditions before and have cast Rosie Ramsey, who now presents on Capital Radio, and West End actress Jamie Birkett who is currently in Saucy Jack and the Space Vixens in London. I’m sure Eleanor will also go on to do great things.”

Jack and the Beanstalk, sponsored by Hays Travel, runs from November 29 to January 7, next year.

Tickets are on sale now and cost from £9.75.

More than 9,000 have already been snapped up.

For more information about the show or to book, go to www.customshouse.co.uk or call the box office on 0191 454 1234. The panto will run at various times.