Jack and the Beanstalk

I was pleased to attend Halifax YMCA’s 75th Anniversary production of Jack and the Beanstalk, written by Alan P. Frayn and directed by Lynda Jowett. Since their first pantomime in 1951, the group has built a long-standing presence in community theatre, and this anniversary year marked an important milestone in that history.

Set in the village of Old Windy Bottom, the story centres on the disruption caused by the Wicked Witch Piccalilli (Karen Parkin) and the towering Giant, Buster Gut-Bucket (Calum Davidson), who watches over the village from his castle in the clouds.

Karen Parkin approached the Witch with confidence, clearly enjoying the audience interaction and delivering the role with steady comic timing. Calum Davidson’s Giant had a strong vocal presence, helping to give the character authority and scale within the story.

Mark Verity’s Dame Dotty Dimple provided many of the classic pantomime moments, combining bold costume, humour and direct engagement with the audience. Amanda Gatehouse’s Simple Simon brought lively energy and physical comedy, creating a character that added lightness to the scenes.

Evie Gatehouse took on the title role of Jack with sincerity and determination. She guided the story effectively and gave the character a sense of purpose as the adventure unfolded.

Fearne Oxlade’s Princess Charlotte brought a calm and composed presence to the production. She played the role with warmth and steadiness, offering a grounded counterpart to Jack. Their scenes together were handled naturally and added a gentle romantic thread to the story.

Danny Summers-Jowett as King Crumble balanced authority with humour, while Elizabeth Gornall’s Queen Apricot brought poise and reassurance to the royal scenes. Together they created a supportive and recognisable royal pairing.

Lucy Fulstow as Humphrey provided moments of nervous humour as the dithering royal aide, reacting well to the situations around her and contributing to the lighter exchanges in court.

Lucas Sanderson’s Rancid the Ratman served as an effective secondary villain, bringing clear character choices and focus to his role. Alongside him, Courtney Hansen’s Snatchet and  Cheryl Callaghan as Scarper worked well as a trio, supporting the storyline with steady comic interplay.

Buttermilk the cow, played by Emma-Leigh Jowett and Lynda Jowett, added visual humour through committed physical performance. Stevie Comer’s Fairy Sugardust offered guidance throughout the story, maintaining a calm and reassuring stage presence.

Musical direction by Matt Bamforth brought together a selection of familiar songs from a range of genres. The musical numbers were performed with enthusiasm and contributed to the lively atmosphere of the afternoon.

The wider ensemble played an important role in building the village scenes and supporting the principal characters. There was a clear sense of enjoyment among the cast, and that energy carried into the audience.

As a first-time visitor to a Halifax YMCA production, what stood out was the strong community involvement behind the show. From performers to musicians, technicians, backstage crew and front-of-house volunteers, the production reflected a collective effort and shared commitment.

Halifax YMCA’s Jack and the Beanstalk was a fitting way to mark 75 years of local pantomime — a production that reflects the dedication and enthusiasm that have supported the group for generations.

Well done to everyone involved — on stage and behind the scenes — for delivering a production that proudly carries forward this remarkable 75-year legacy.

 

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