TWO sold-out shows meant the opening day for Taunton Wayfarers' prize panto couldn't have been better for the colourful company of performers this week.

On Sunday, hordes of youngsters bounced up and down in their seats as the bright and bold cast brought Jack and the Beanstalk to Tacchi-Morris.

With its tap-dancing cow, glow-in-the-dark effects and live giant, the show drew all the right reactions from the audience.

The Wayfarers' Terry Wood reflected: "The Wayfarers are delighted with the response to the first two shows at the Tacchi, both of which were sell-outs.

"It has been a real challenge for us to make it this year, but we think we've got to the usual standard, and the set and costumes look fantastic.

"There were great performances from the cast and technically everything worked well.

"The Wayfarers are indeed back from the brink after losing so much money when the Brewhouse went into administration."

Tacchi-Morris director, Louise Lappin-Cook, said: "We've been delighted to host the Wayfarers this year at the art centre.

"They're a true asset to the county, and if the two sell-out shows were anything to go by, it's going to be a fantastic run."

Margaret Pearson, grandmother to Freya, nine, of Taunton, said: "I come every year. I've got all the programmes and the tickets."

Nicholas Hopes, eight, also of Taunton, said: "This is my first panto and it's really good. I like it when they do magic."

Visit www.tacchi-morris.com to book tickets for The Wayfarers' Jack and the Beanstalk.