Jack and the Beanstalk

This was a good old-fashioned family pantomime designed to appeal to all ages and the cast worked hard to ensure that the audience were entertained. Much of the interplay with the audience fell on the shoulders of Chris Flint (Simple Simon) and he persevered with this first night audience until he had got them all involved and on his side. He was ably assisted in the comedy by Jonathan Edwards (Dame Trott). Well done to you both for that as it certainly paid off. Vicky Evans (Fairy Flutterby) delivered her lines with impeccable diction and Steve Thornhill was suitably odious as the giant’s henchman, Fleshcreep. Further comedy was provided by Sarah Diamond (Bodgit) and Liam Lawson Scarper) as the pair worked well together. Brian Washington (Mayor Muddles) kept the balance between the romantic and comedy elements. The romance was provided by Lauren Jay Barry (Jack Trott) and Rebecca Louise Cox with the two of them interacting well together. The giant was impressive with Brett Sirrell being very mobile on stilts and Kieran Smith Taylor’s voice appropriately enhanced to reverberate through the theatre. There was a very energetic pantomime cow with Julie Hunter and Rebecca Cartwright perfectly synchronised. There were also important contributions to the story from Linda Askew (Mrs Nattersack) and Dave Beere (Big Benny). An essential part of any pantomime is a versatile ensemble acting as villagers, dancers etc. and an enthusiastic group of children. This production had both. There was some good singing from principals and chorus although I did find that some songs ended rather abruptly.

The whole production was well supported by Ian Room and Ian Richards in the orchestra pit and lighting and sound were also effective. Well done to all involved!

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