Design A Dame Competition
Have you got a design idea for a fabulous costume for our beloved Dame Trott for her to wear in the opening scene of this year’s pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk?
The winning design will be professionally made and worn on stage this Christmas!
What is a Dame?
The Dame is one of pantomime’s most iconic characters – usually played by a man in an exaggerated women’s costume, she’s bold, hilarious, warm-hearted and full of mischief. In Jack and the Beanstalk, Dame Trott is Jack’s mum. She’s hard-working, practical, full of character – and never underdressed.
Your Design Brief
The first scene is set in Romford on Market day, and her costume should reflect what you think of Romford Market – its colours, energy, and everyday magic.
🍑 We’re looking for designs that…
Celebrate Romford Market: Think fruit and veg stalls, market traders, fabrics, signage, and local character.
Showcase Creativity: Go big on colour, accessories and character – but make sure it could really be made and worn. Don’t forget a wig, hat, or headpiece to complete the look.
How to Enter
You can use our Design a Dame template or create your own design from scratch. Templates can be downloaded, or collected from Box Office.
📅 Deadline: Friday 18 July 2025
👥 Age Limit: Open to anyone aged up to 18 (please include your age when submitting)
Submit your design by:
Email: competitions@queens-theatre.co.uk (subject: Design a Dame Entry).
Or drop it off at Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch Box Office.
Please write in the email, or on the back of your design, your child’s name and age, parent/guardian name and contact (email/phone) details.
The Prize
✨ The winning design will be worn on stage this Christmas in Jack and the Beanstalk.
🌟 The winner will be invited to visit the theatre for a behind-the-scenes experience – this could include watching the costume being made or attending a fitting.
🎟️ 4 tickets to press night
🍬 A special panto goody bag filled with treats
And don’t forget to book your tickets now to see Jack and the Beanstalk this Christmas – and help Jack reach for the sky!
