DRAMA students brought a true giant of a pantomime to the stage with their classic comedy spectacular Jack and the Beanstalk.

A cast of 24 students, from Haughton Academy, Darlington, finally delivered two evenings of slapstick and storytelling to overflowing audiences with magic beans, a journey to an enchanted kingdom in the clouds, an evil giant and a 20 foot high beanstalk.

The panto-season caper, complete with hisses, boos and cheers, was directed by lead drama teacher, Claire Taylor.

“It was slightly manic pulling this year’s pantomime together,” said Ms Taylor.

“We had to postpone just before Christmas due to a number of students being off school ill and then we had to replace a few of the actors – so some of them only had one week to learn their lines.

“I’m totally amazed at how well they have all done. They have been great and really pulled out all the stops on the night.”

Jack and the Beanstalk follows on from the academy’s first successful Christmas pantomime Aladdin in 2013, both of which were choreographed by year 11 prefect Chloe Robson, 16.

“We had four numbers to learn for this show but some of our dancers were new so it took quite a few rehearsals to get it just right,” said Chloe, who has been dancing since the age of eight.

“I’ve choreographed all of the school productions since I was in year seven. It’s always quite stressful but great when it all comes together on stage.”

Backdrops and scenery, including a 20ft high beanstalk with a lift, were created by the school’s art department and stage lighting and sound came courtesy of a student technical crew, while props and costumes were provided by the academy’s drama department.