Jack and the Beanstalk

Jack and the Beanstalk
Written by: Tom Whalley
Performed by: Muses
Directed by: Conner Vickery
Musical Director/Choreographer by: Hannah Steer
Performed at: St Jude’s Theatre Weston.
Date: 5th December 2025
Noda Rep: Mike Purnell
I was so looking forward to my visit to St Jude’s to see Muses first panto,
which was also my first panto of the season. My second visit was to be the
following week to yet another Jack and the Beanstalk this time a professional
one at The Bristol Hippodrome, I can honestly say I enjoyed yours far better.
Great choice of script by Tom Whalley a good blend of traditional pantomime
charm with modern, hilarious twists, making it engaging for both cast and
audience alike.
On the modest stage at St Jude’s you had cleverly designed lighting and self
sourced costumes, this production proved that heart, humour and creativity
matter far more than huge budgets. Despite the small space the lighting
design brought real magic to the performance, transforming scenes with
warmth and sparkle, from the flashing lights above, to the subtle twinkle of
the trees, it was fabulous. The screen above gave us some excellent
projections that added plenty of humour when used thanks to the very clever
Will Taylor.
This really was panto at its best. The self sourced costumes were a triumph,
each outfit felt authentic to the panto tradition adding colour and character
without ever distracting from the story. The biggest compliment I can
probably pay is to tell you I didn’t stop laughing and smiling from beginning
to end. It really was laugh out loud funny. It was just a joy to look around at
the audience who were having such a good time. There’s certainly no arguing
with that!
Choreography (Hannah Steer)
Your vision for the routines elevated the show even further. Turning familiar
songs into fresh theatrical experiences. You crafted each routine to suit the
characters and story, whilst also delivering pure entertainment. The audience
response proved the choreography was a true highlight of the show. Polished
and full of heart. This was an incredibly busy show for you. Well done

Musical direction (Hannah Steer)
From the rousing “Brand New Day” you had us engaged with the music.
Despite your short rehearsal period you were lucky to get such a talented
cast who obviously went away and did their homework. Harmonies came
through really well and was a good balance with the tracks. Great vocals
throughout.
Jack Trott (Mollie)
You brought a wonderfully traditional charm to the stage. You looked
beautiful, capturing the essence of the classic pantomime hero with warmth
and energy. Your presence was engaging and clearly connected with the
audience through your enthusiasm and commitment to the role.
While some of the comic timing wasn’t always spot on, the foundations are
clearly there and with more stage experience the delivery of jokes will
undoubtedly sharpen. What stood out most was your confidence, your strong
stage presence and the way you embrace the pantomime tradition
wholeheartedly.
Princess Jill (Hannah)
You delivered a truly charming performance. You looked every inch the
fairytale princess bringing elegance and grace to the stage. Your singing was
a real highlight - powerful, confident, and full of emotion and captivated the
audience with every number. Your interaction with Jack was natural and
engaging, creating a believable partnership that carried the story beautifully.
You also showed great rapport with the audience drawing them into the
magic of the pantomime and adding to the fun atmosphere.
Silly Simon (Conner)
You were truly the glue that held Jack and the Beanstalk together. Your comic
timing was spot-on throughout, with a delivery that carried echoes of the
great Tommy Cooper: sharp, playful, and perfectly pitched to keep the
audience laughing. Visually, you were a delight from your colourful costume
complete with the unforgettable helicopter hat which added to the fun and
made him instantly recognisable as the heart of the show. What made your
performance even more remarkable was that you also directed the
production balancing the demands of leading the comedy while steering the
entire show is no mean feat yet you managed it with flare. Your dual role
insured the pantomime ran smoothly and kept the energy high from start to
finish. A standout performance

Dame Trott (Ian)
This performance was an absolute triumph. Comedy timing was razor sharp,
with every joke delivered to perfection and every pause milked for maximum
laughter. The colourful costumes were gloriously traditional, bursting with
pantomime charm and the wigs were a spectacle in themselves. Bold,
flamboyant and perfectly matched to the characters larger than life
personality.
What truly elevated your performance was your rapport with the audience.
You didn’t just break the fourth wall, you danced through it, pulling the crowd
into your world with ease. Audience member Alex became your evenings
running gag and while he may still be in therapy after being singled out, you
can bet he’s already bought his ticket for next year. Vibrant, cheeky and
unforgettable. Wonderful.
Pat The Cow (Elisha)
This was a delightful surprise played by a single performer with udders
humorously attached. For me a very inventive take on the traditional
pantomime cow, and I must say you gave the role a quirky individuality that
immediately caught our attention. I loved how you knew just how to play the
audience especially for the sympathy vote when being sold. Every glance and
sigh had us absolutely rooting for you. I was moo-vingly entertained! Sorry
couldn’t resist.
Mother Nature (Jodie)
Your portrayal was simply enchanting. Your costume alone adorned with
intricate tree and leaf growth was a work of art! Beautifully detailed and
perfectly suited for the role. You held the stage with grace and authority and
connected fully with the audience. Your gorgeous singing voice was just the
cherry on top. Brilliant.
Fleshcreep (Cameron)
This was everything you’d want from a pantomime villain. Deliciously wicked
yet irresistibly entertaining. With a perfect twinkle in the eye you struck just
the right balance between mischief and menace keeping the audience booing
and laughing in equal measure. You brought great comic timing to the role
ensuring that every entrance was met with both groans and giggles. Costume
was spot on. That wigs done you a good couple of turns! I just loved the
sheer energy and fun you brought to the stage. Great work.

King Edward (Luke)
Here was another comic highlight of the evening. Bursting with energy and
impeccable timing. Every line delivered with precision and your facial
expressions alone were enough to send the audience into fits of laughter. The
choice to play him on his knees in the style of Shrek was genius adding a
layer of physical comedy that elevated your character making each scene
hilarious and memorable. Your commitment to the gag was incredible and we
the audience loved every moment of it.
Chorus (Sam, Chelsey Oliver)
You all brought an infectious energy to the stage, singing and dancing up a
storm with every number. Your enthusiasm was undeniable and kept the
show going at a lively pace. Even without microphones your commitment
shone through and choreography was delivered with precision and flair. You
may have been supporting cast but your contribution was vital. A true
testament to how much fun a hardworking ensemble can bring to a
production.
Director (Conner Vickery)
Well you certainly delivered an outstanding production that was nothing short
of spectacular in many ways. Every detail was meticulously thought through
and in such a short rehearsal period. You created a vibrant atmosphere that
kept the audience engaged throughout. The fact you were wearing dual hats
made this even more remarkable. Balancing the demands of directing such a
memorable performance is no small feat, yet you managed both with
incredible success.
Final Thoughts - This Jack and the Beanstalk was a joyous, laugh out loud
evening of theatre. Proof that with passion, creativity and a cast willing to
throw themselves into the fun, amateur panto can rival professional
productions in entertainment value. The whole company deserves applause
for delivering such a delightful show.
Thanks so much for your kind hospitality
Best wishes and a very Happy Christmas to you all.
Mike x

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