A giant announcement - Folk Features

Karl Minns, one half of Norfolk’s favourite comedy duo, the Nimmo Twins, has been announced as the voice of Giant Bonecrunch in this year’s pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, opening at Norwich Theatre Royal on Saturday. And, he says, expect a cross between his much-loved character Keith Onatroshin and his Grandad!

As a part of the Nimmo Twins, Karl has been making the people of Norfolk laugh for more than two decades by mocking the local stories of the day. Now Karl is turning his skills to the voice of the baddie Giant Bonecrunch in in this year’s pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, opening at Norwich Theatre Royal. Speaking about his role as the Giant, Karl Minns says: ‘Being cast as the Giant was a real surprise. I have never been involved in the panto in Norwich before, and I love the tradition of it. However, I never ever thought I would be asked to be in one.

‘When I initially got the call, I thought they physically wanted me to play the Giant, which, considering I am 5 foot 10, I thought was a mistake. However, when they explained it was just the voice, I thought this is fantastic, and I am very proud to play ‘the Ruddy Great Giant’ in what is looking to be a fantastic show.’

Jack and the Beanstalk – Norwich Theatre

You might recognise the voice of the Giant with Karl taking inspiration from the Nimmo Twins character, the perpetually cross Keith Onatroshin. ‘For the voice of Bonecrunch, I have brought a mixture of me, Keith Onatroshin and various Norfolk characters I have met along the way, including my Grandad,’ says Karl.

Karl will also be performing at the Playhouse with the Nimmo Twins fan favourite She Go in She Go Looks Back At 2022 From Behind With Friends, the perfect antidote to the January Blues. Due to popular demand, new performances have just gone on sale.

During panto season, kids eat free at Norwich Theatre’s restaurant Prelude. Any child under the age of 12 will receive a child’s main course and dessert free when accompanied by an adult purchasing a two or three-course meal. On the festive children’s menu, there is a Christmas dinner or pigs in blankets and mash and a choice of desserts, including ice cream or cookies and milk!