Jack and The Beanstalk

It is not an easy task to write your own pantomime as it is a very difficult art form to get right, but if you do get it right, you’re reaching lots and lots of people. You’re reaching young people, old people, huge amounts of families, people who do that ‘only going to the theatre once a year’ thing and you can give people their first theatre experience. Crigglestone Theatre Company got it just right this year and Kim Longbottom’s original script was the special magical ingredient that helped it be a huge success.

We were treated to all the traditional ingredients of Jack and The Beanstalk, the magical fairy, the evil witch, the village idiot, a flamboyant dame, the hero and heroine, a rich mayor and, of course, the giant.

Much of the interplay with the audience fell on the shoulders of Fiona Welburn (Wally) and she persevered with the audience until she had got them all involved and on her side. She was ably assisted in the comedy by Robert Gordon (Dame Trott) who presented the character well taking advantage to show off the splendid costumes. They took opportunities to add topical jokes and even when things didn’t quite go to plan, they were able to help each other carry on – even though it was through tears of laughter!

Further audience interaction was provided by Paul Biltcliffe (Fairy Fowerpot) who the audience warmed to instantly and wanted to help all the way through. It was a delight to see Paul playing a different character to how I’ve seen him before and he was obviously having the time of his life.

His counterpart, the giant’s evil henchperson, Mildred, was played by the indomitable Nicola Duval. She delivered her lines with impeccable diction and looked incredibly sophisticated. Her song Bad Guy was suitably evil and showed her wide range of singing and acting ability.

The romance was provided by Niki Carter (Jack) and Holly Grace (Jill) with the two of them interacting well together. Jill’s mum, the Mayor, played by Katie Binns, added a different dynamic and air of royalness with just a touch of snobbery! It was a pleasure to see Katie taking a lead role in the adult productions after being so heavily involved in the Kids contingent. I would love to see her taking on more roles in the future.

I can’t forget, Steve Anderson who provided a very fitting voice for Giant Biggiboosh. His voice reverberated around the room and adequately made the children cower.

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 and the song choices worked well, although I did find that some of them ended rather abruptly.

In conclusion, the society delivered a pantomime that was full of traditional fun, laughter and audience participation.  Everything that you might hope for in a panto was present and correct, and presented with energy and enthusiasm.

Congratulations to everyone involved, and I look forward to seeing you all again soon!

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.