Jack and the Beanstalk

It was a pleasure to attend Spennymoor Stage and Song’s production of “Jack and the Beanstalk”, which proved to be an excellent, vibrant, and immensely popular pantomime. The energy and enthusiasm displayed by the entire company ensured a thoroughly enjoyable evening, and the standard set here is truly exemplary for District 4.

From the outset, the production radiated a sense of fun and community spirit. The direction by Liam Etherington was tight, maintaining a brisk pace, which a lot of groups struggle with and keeping the audience thoroughly engaged throughout. The cast demonstrated a clear understanding of pantomime traditions, with strong characterisation and plenty of audience interaction, which had both children and adults joining in with gusto. Poor Musical Director Jill Jackson also saw her fair share of interaction with the orchestra being roped into the fun throughout much to the delight of the audience.

The choreography from Ann-Marie Clayton and Stacey Thompson was a particular highlight, with well-rehearsed and imaginative routines that made full use of the stage and showcased the talents of the ensemble. The dance numbers added sparkle and pzazz, contributing to the lively atmosphere and helping to lift the show to another level.  With a really large cast of senior and junior members it’s always hard to maintain discipline and deliver a showstopper but Director Liam managed just that.

Costuming was excellent by Sue Marley and Susan Rogers; every character was dressed appropriately and colourfully, with attention to detail that enhanced the visual spectacle. The set, props, and technical elements were all handled smoothly, creating a magical world that delighted the audience and added to the overall professionalism of the production. Brightstar Light & Sound delivered as always with lighting design, Duncan Baxter from East Durham Audio with sound and Aaron Calder supporting ensured the technical elements were seamless.

All principal roles were performed with confidence and charm, and the ensemble supported the action with enthusiasm and discipline. Heather Whitfield in the title role of Jack, played a charming role with some gorgeous vocals, Ian Patterson as Dame Dotty Dimple was a madcap delight as always with a vast array of ever growing wacky wigs and costumes, Liam Etherington as Simple Simon again absolutely shone in the role with superb coming timing and an ability to play the audience, wind up an orchestra and keep the pace throughout, Ann-Marie Clayton made an utterly stunning Piccalitti the Witch and the “Time Warp” was a show stopper opening Act 2.  Sadly Jayne McLean was unable to take to the stage as Fairy Sugardust due to the early arrival of her beautiful son Archer but  thankfully the super talented Megs Defty was on hand to step into the role and ensure the show went on.  Robyn Watson delighted as ever in the comedic henchman role of Rancid the Ratman, supported by Hannah Crosby as Snatchet and Sara Holliday as Scarper whose comedic antics had the audiences in fits of laughter.  The Royal family compromising of Dan Riches as King Crumble, Helen Pryce as Queen Apricot and Jade Carney as Princess Charlotte were suitably regal and hilarious when appropriate and were supported by Rebekah Newman as Humprey and David Galloway as Buster Gut-Bucket. The comedic timing was spot on, and the company’s rapport with the audience was evident from the first scene to the last. Where else would you be entertained by a giant inflatable rat (I spied you Kieran Watson!) and a T-Rex in Old Dame Dotty’s farm for utter madcap chaos! Of course the star of the show also, Buttermilk the Cow played by Susan Etherington and Pam Watson – afraid I’ve no idea which end was which!

If there is one area for potential improvement, it would be the script, which at times felt a little stale and might benefit from some fresh material or contemporary references to keep the humour sharp and relevant. Nevertheless, the cast did well to bring life and laughter to the dialogue provided.

Overall, Spennymoor Stage and Song’s “Jack and the Beanstalk” was a joy to watch and stands out as a standard setter for District 4. Congratulations to all involved for their hard work and dedication in producing such a high-quality pantomime.  The standing ovation really spoke for itself, and I’m counting down until Kinky Boots!

 

 

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