Jack and the Beanstalk

Thirty nine years ago John Harley was working as a dentist in the Lincolnshire town of Crowland when, in order to raise funds for the Crowland Lake Civic Society, he decided to write a pantomime script based on the story of “Jack and the beanstalk”. Following performances of this early production, the Crowland Amateur Dramatic Society (CADS) was formed and have continued to stage pantomimes and other plays which John supported throughout the years. Sadly, John died in 2015, and as a tribute to him, CADS chose to use John’s original script for their show this year and what a fine tribute it turned out to be. Previous pantos which I have attended at Crowland have all had a large chorus of local children and this tribute was no exception, since there were 40 youngsters who gave their all to make this a special production. There were also a significant number of adults involved, including three members who had appeared in the original performance. A local pantomime provides opportunities for those who wish to exhibit their talents to entertain to go on stage and for those who lack the confidence to do so there is always the chance to actively participate as member of the audience; this was certainly the case with the performance that I attended. John’s script contained all the essential ingredients to ensure that everyone enjoyed themselves. Corny jokes, puns, slapstick routines, silly songs and audience participation. The costumes were well chosen and very colourful; the well designed and constructed scenery was illuminated by a clever lighting plan. As a result of his professional experience, John was able to insert a most appropriate scene in his script which features the Principal Boy instructing the Giant how to properly clean his teeth, a real gem of an example of “learning whilst having fun”. This production was a fitting tribute to the memory of John Harley for which CADS and Crowland people can feel justifiably proud. Well done all concerned!

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