Jack and the Beanstalk

On Friday, March 14th, I had the pleasure of attending North West Theatre Company's pantomime production of Jack and the Beanstalk. This timeless tale was brilliantly reimagined by a talented group of young performers who skilfully blended contemporary humour with the charm of the classic story. From Jack's journey to sell Daisy the cow, his encounter with the magic beans, and the daring ascent up the beanstalk to face the formidable giant—the production beautifully captured the essence of this beloved narrative. The triumphant return of Jack and his companions brought the story to a gratifying conclusion, leaving the audience delighted.

From the opening scene to the final curtain call, every performer poured their heart and soul into the production. It was truly inspiring to see such passion and energy from these rising stars, who clearly revelled in the joy of performing. The lively opening number, One Short Day, showcased vibrant choreography and projection, complemented by dazzling, colourful costumes—a testament to the performers’ enthusiasm and meticulous preparation.

The stage came alive with beloved characters. Jack, played by Poppy Evans, exhibited exceptional stage presence and mastery of vocal performances, singing with conviction and control throughout her musical numbers. Her interactions with fellow characters felt natural and well-rehearsed, solidifying Poppy as a promising talent in the world of theatre. Dame Trott, portrayed by Harry Gardner, delivered humour and charm with great skill, deftly handling moments of audience hesitation by ad-libbing and transforming them into engaging performances—a brilliant example of wit and improvisation.

Of course, no pantomime would be complete without a comedy duo! In this production, Mark's Son Spencer (played by Lilly Taylor) and George By Asda (played by Stephanie Cannavan) brought endless energy and impeccable timing to the stage. Their quick wit and playful banter captivated the audience every time they appeared. Meanwhile, the menacing Fleshcreep, portrayed by Kostya Kobzan, delivered a classic "baddie" performance that drew plenty of boos and hisses—a testament to Kostya's talent and stagecraft.

The production’s success owed much to the expert direction of Prab Singh and the inspired musical direction by Beth Singh, who equipped these young performers with the skills and confidence to deliver a high-energy pantomime. Despite some minor technical issues—a common occurrence even in professional theatre—the performers demonstrated remarkable stagecraft. One notable example was an ensemble member who swiftly removed a stray item from the stage during a dynamic choreography sequence, exemplifying professionalism and composure.

Overall, North West Theatre Arts Company deserves immense praise for their delightful pantomime that brimmed with energy, enthusiasm, purpose, and an unmistakable love for theatre. Each performer should take pride in this exceptional production. Thank you for the warm welcome and hospitality—I eagerly look forward to your future endeavours.

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