It’s that time of year again, where beleaguered parents take their ears in their hands and bring the kids to the famous Gaiety panto. Apparently, this time of year is when theatres are most full, as audiences choose laugh at Christmas cracker jokes in the script, shout at the stage and generally get into the festive spirit, rather than attend that Ibsen revival. It mightn’t be highbrow, but it’s a lot of fun. This year, it’s Jack and the beanstalk and a word to the wise — the giant is going to be behind him. The panto runs from November 29 to January 31.