THE Albert Halls may be closed for refurbishment, but Bolton will still be getting a pantomime this year (oh yes we will).

The Premier Suite at the Macron Stadium will be transformed into a theatre to house its first pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk for 38 shows lined up throughout December and January.

Rochelle Ayris will take the lead role as Jack, entertainer Tam Ryan will be Jack's bumbling brother Silly Billy and comedy double act the Patton Brothers bring the traditional slapstick humour.

Bolton Wanderers' own mascot Lofty the Lion will also take on a starring role in each show.

Mr Ryan, aged 38, said: "I've been doing panto at the Opera House in Manchester for the past five years so it will be nice to have a change of scene and come to Bolton.

"I will be playing the half-wit comedy role so it won't be too far removed from what I have done in the past. For me it's the best part because you get to cheat a bit by and interact with the audience, and hopefully make them laugh."

Mr Ryan says it is all down to none other than David Hasselhoff that he was able to take the Bolton panto role.

He said: "I am going on tour with the Hoff in a musical called Last Night a DJ Saved My Life, and it just so happens that he is taking a break to do panto, meaning that the rest of the cast can too, which is great. It's one of the best forms of theatre out there, I love it."

The show, produced by Fame Factory Spotlight, will feature household names such as Coronation Street's Graeme Hawley and Emmerdale and Casualty star Chelsea Halfpenny.

Mr Hawley, who will play Baron Von Tightwad said: "I am absolutely delighted to be joining the cast of Jack and the Beanstalk. My first experience on stage was in Pantomime and it has been many years since I have performed in one, so it feels very special to be coming back to it.

"It's an amazing cast, one of the most loved pantomime stories and it's practically a home town show for me, so I'm sure it's going to be a very special experience. And I love playing the baddie."

The show, written and directed by Scott Clarkson, will begin its run on December 4.

Nikki Clarkson from Fame Factory Spotlight added: "We are really passionate about keeping our pantos traditional while making sure they are up to date with topical gags, and the latest numbers.

"There will be lots of fun and audience participation in the true spirit of pantomime. You won't be disappointed."

To book tickets visit eticketing.co.uk/bwfc and for news and updates visit facebook.com/Boltonpanto2015.