Although Christmas is six months away, one organisation is already making plans for the festive season.

The Bermuda Musical and Dramatic Society will be staging the pantomime Jack & De Beaniestawk in early December — and will be holding cast auditions next week.

Kim Day, the president of BMDS, said: “I know that for many families in Bermuda, including my own, this cherished tradition marks the true beginning of the Christmas season and we are thrilled to be bringing the magic back to the stage once again.

“Producing a pantomime is a true community effort and it simply wouldn't be possible without the incredible dedication of our volunteers.

“Every aspect of the show is powered entirely by volunteers. Their passion, time and energy are what keeps productions like this alive. We are always in need of more helping hands.”

Auditions for adult principals will be held at the society’s Daylesford theatre on Dundonald Street in Hamilton from 1pm to 5pm on June 21 and 22, with auditions for children planned to take place in September.

Rehearsals will begin in October and opening night will be on December 2, with 13 performances including three matinees scheduled to run up to December 13.

The production this year will be directed by Laura Bardgett. “I’m very happy to be directing the panto again, and working with a phenomenal creative team, including producers Tracey Beach and Alan Brooks,” she said.

“Jack and the Beanstalk is one of the most recognised pantos in the UK and we’ll be giving it a Bermudian twist — we’re placing it in Bermuda, costumes will have a Bermuda flavour and there will be lots of local jokes. It’s going to be something both kids and parents can really relate to.”

Ms Bardgett encouraged anyone interested to come along.

“Even if you’ve never been on stage before, come and have a go,” she said.

“There is a wide range of roles, from Jack to the pantomime cow.”

Anyone interested in taking part in the should check BMDS’s social media @bmdsbermuda on Instagram or www.bmds.bm for more information.

BMDS can also be contacted by e-mail at diva@bmds.bm.