Jack and the Beanstalk

Jack & the Beanstalk

Beverley Musical Theatre

 

Directed by Ian Thompson, Musical Team Hannah Hughes, Fiona Latham and James Cope, Choreographed by Rebecca Kingston

Beverley Memorial Hall

22nd November2025

 

Beverley Musical Theatre’s production of Jack and the Beanstalk, directed by Ian Thompson, offered an interesting and mostly enjoyable evening of traditional pantomime entertainment. With choreography by Rebecca Kingston and musical direction from Hannah Hughes, Fiona Lathem, and James Cope, the show delivered many of the familiar elements audiences expect from a panto: slapstick comedy, audience participation, and—of course—a dancing cow called Pat, charmingly brought to life by Sarah Hurst and Rebecca Hamilton.

The production made effective use of the stage, with regularly changing backdrops helping set the scenes on an otherwise fairly bare space. While the set itself was minimal, the props that were used helped maintain variety and supported the storytelling. The costumes deserve praise; they were well-matched to the characters and contributed to a cohesive, synergetic visual style across the cast.

Vocally, the show was one of BMT’s strong points. The singing throughout the production was exemplary, with confident harmonies and, for the most part, clear projection. Popular musical numbers such as “Domino,” “So Kiss Me,” and “Timber” stood out as highlights. The choreography was also extensive and well rehearsed, particularly the routine performed by Rebecca Kingston, Amy Trewitt, and Laura Cox. Although this number was executed with real precision and talent, its style felt slightly at odds with the cheesy, slapstick tone typically associated with pantomime and I do wonder if it was necessary within the show. Even so, it was refreshing to see a production that involved its full cast in dance numbers rather than relying on a select group.

The show featured a substantial and diverse main cast, each bringing something unique to the stage. The performance opened with an upbeat and wonderfully warm introduction by Wendy Kay as the Vegetable Fairy, whose bubbling positivity carried through the entire show. Ian Start’s portrayal of Harold the Herald was upright, forthright, and well delivered. The comedic duo Gorgon (Melissa Kay) and Zola (Stanley Brown) provided delightful humour, forming a ditsy and entertaining pair that quickly won over the audience with their hijinx.

No staging of Jack and the Beanstalk would be complete without a fearsome giant, and Adam Peckitt rose to the challenge with a towering performance. Ian Thompson, doubling as Dame Dotty, consistently drew attention—even in moments when the focus was meant to be elsewhere—which, while humorous, occasionally pulled attention from the action. Kayleigh Carter brought an airy charm to Millie the Milkshake and never seemed phased in her performance when unexpected things happened. Claire Cooper (Jack) and Georgia Kingston (Jill the Giant Killer) made a pleasant central pairing, carrying the story capably.

However, the standout performances of the evening came from Mike Wells as Dotty Dennis and Adam Sperring as Baron Von Evil Bean. I have seen these two gentlemen in a variety of performances over the past few years. Both are performers known for their versatility, and once again they showcased their ability to adapt seamlessly into character. Their stage presence, timing, and energy consistently elevated the scenes they were in, and it is difficult to say which outshone the other. These two definitely stole the show.

Overall, Beverley Musical Theatre’s Jack and the Beanstalk provided a lively pantomime experience that younger audience members enjoyed. While not without its uneven moments or, the production included strong vocals, committed performances, and the familiar festive charm audiences look for in a panto. I hope the rest 

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