Jack and the Beanstalk

Jack and the Beanstalk:  is set in the land of Merrydale and tells the story of how the wicked Giant wants to eat the King and the villagers. It’s a story with lots of twists and turns, the love story, the slapstick and a sassy fairy – who speaks in rhyme - sets the scene and appears occasionally to narrate the links in the story. 

The set was good and scene changes done quickly. The props were well used and the tree (the focal point for one of the scenes) was inspired.  But, should that be a prop or a costume? 

The costumes  were excellent, and the entire cast’s costumes enhanced their characters: such as the floaty dress (and wings) for Edena the Eco Fairy, regal costume for the King, Simple Simon’s farmhand’s outfit and pretty dress for Princess Demelza. The Dame’s outrageous costumes and wigs deserve special praise as does Daisy’s cow suit.

There was a huge amount much to enjoy in this pantomime. The enthusiasm of the performers was evident throughout. There were some spirited performances and great rapport with the audience.  There was great chemistry between Anthony Martin as Dame Trot and Pritesh Morar as Simple Simon. Claire Lymer displayed her versatility as the Fairy and also supporting the production with her clever choreography, especially in the scene where Trumpet was disguised as the tree!  The songs were sung with gusto and included: ‘You can’t stop the music’ and ‘We danced all night to the best music ever’ and the audience joined in for ‘Marry You’.  

This show had all the ingredients for a perfect panto: the hapless pair in the form of the baddies: Slimeball 1 and Slimeball 2, the love story between the Princess and Jack, local references and plenty of corny jokes.  The giant, although not making a physical appearance, but made his presence felt with booming voice at great volume.   Under the direction of Lesley Nicholls and a supportive creative team this was an evening of enjoyable entertainment for all the family.  

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.