Back up the Beanstalk

Covering for a colleague took me to the north of the region and the beautiful village of Felton in Northumberland for Felton and Thirston Pantomime Society’s production of “Back up the Beanstalk”. This bespoke pantomime was written by their director Kirsty Cooper and took us on a return journey up the beanstalk to Fairytale Land making it the perfect vehicle to include many nursey rhyme and fairytale characters in the story telling.

The performance venue was small but the production team had ensured that every inch of performance space was utilised. The addition of a video wall, which was a first for the group, was put to great use with colourful backdrops and a fun portrayal of the characters climbing the beanstalk. Well done to Joseph Butlin for creating the digital content. Congratulations also to the army of backstage support who ensured swift scene changes.  Costumes were bright and colourful and suited the characters.

Leading the action with great confidence was Joanna Barrett as Jack assisted by her trusty but naughty pet dog “Patchoo” (bless you!) played by Shar Cannon. The dog’s antics caused many laughs throughout even if an umbrella might have been useful during their scenes! Jack’s cheeky chicken with a penchant for Paris was played by Jill Jacobs who seemed to relish in the backchat. Bailey Stables played Dame Trott and ensured that there was playful interaction with the audience whilst keeping Jack and his friends in line.

The many fairytale characters all played their roles well and shone in their moment. Special mention to Robert who stepped in as “Diddle Diddle” at short notice to cover illness, it wasn’t noticeable as his performance was very confident. The young ensemble, Poppy, Ida, Harper and Evie performed all their routines with conviction, and their sunflowers were particularly cute, well done! The “twist in the tale” ending was made hilarious by the arrival of Mother Hubbard played by Dave Price; literal belly laughs at his antics disciplining his wayward son the “Giant” played by Dave Francis.

My stars of the show were Bethany Cooper as Baa-nold and Grace Millican as Alan the giant's henchmen. These young performers were confident, had great comic timing, clear delivery and super stage presence – they are definitely ones to watch for the future, great job girls.

This was a fun, lively, inclusive, community spirited production which was thoroughly enjoyed by the capacity audience.

Thank you for your warm welcome.

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