The infamous words: Fee, Fi, Fo, Fum' will echo around Wimbledon Theatre as the audience watch nimble Jack, (Shane Ritchie) outstrip the clumsy giant (Gary Sharkey) in Jack and the Beanstalk, writes Yvonne Gordon.

Allan Stewart as Dame Trot played his first Dame four years ago. He based the cheeky character, created for a Scottish television series and inspired by the wife of a musical director, on his Aunt May.

He says: "I can say things in her voice that I couldn't in my own. For example, I sometimes ask an elderly person in the audience if he or she has ever met Elvis Presley. When they say no, I retort that it won't be long now.

"Or I ask a woman if she is with her second husband, and comment that he wouldn't be my first choice."

Allan, who admires the comedy-style of Bruce Forsyth, Mrs Merton and Lily Savage, is an all-round performer.

"My act is singing, dancing and comedy both live and on television and I get something out of all of them, but the buzz from live shows is the greatest thing."

He started performing aged 10, when he won a talent competition in his native Glasgow, but he doesn't think there's a great secret to being a good

comedian.

"Topical subjects usually work for two weeks and it is important to keep up with what's happening in news and entertainment generally."

The highlight of Allan's career was playing Al Jolson.

"It was different from everything I'd done before as the role had lots of acting, but my own act is my first love.

"Jack and the Beanstalk is going to be a wacky show and at one read-through we were all in hysterics. It's very energetic and there are great sets."

It is Allan's second time at Wimbledon and he is pleased, as he says: "to be home at Christmas for the first time in 10 years and here for his children's birthdays".

Britain's first pantomime was staged 275 years ago at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, but can be traced back to Roman times, where one

Pantomimus' was a non-speaking performer in a bawdy show.

The character, Harlequin developed in the 18th century from the 15th century Commedia dell'Arte, which performed classic tales at festivals.

Short plays were also performed in intervals, complete with illusory tricks, still used today.

Pantomime came into its own in Victorian times when the Christmas traditions of trees, cards and present-giving started.

Puss in Boots, Dick Whittington, Cinderella and Jack all had their debut during this era.

Wimbledon Theatre's first show was Jack and Jill in 1910.

For many children pantomime is their first theatre outing, where the family can see a show with entertainment for all ages.

Performances of Jack And The Beanstalk. Until January 20, at 2.15pm and 7.15pm.

Children's seats are £10, call 020 8540 0362.

December 13, 2001 17:00