JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

I liked the script, which allowed the Director to get all the traditional panto gags and situations included, with some good one liners from a cast who are experienced in this type of production.

Backdrops were nicely imagined, with some good lighting that enhanced the sets.  Sound effects were suitable, and balance between tracks and cast were fine, projection from the cast was very good.

Music was well-chosen, and mostly sung with meaning, a little pitchy in a couple of places!

Costumes were colourful and worn well, everyone looked the part.  I was particularly taken by the inflatable cow – a super idea, which meant the cow had a definite personality, great fun.

The wheelbarrow set was nicely achieved, although I would have liked the graphics to be slightly bigger, as sometimes they lost their effectiveness, but well-managed by Jack and Tilly.  The 12 Days was also nicely managed – a little slow, but such a difficult piece to do, even though it is a relatively simple concept.

Donna Fletcher (Poison Ivy) was very evil, I liked what she did with the part, showing mainly a cruel side but also a more humane side too.  Well done.

Bridget Calvert (Mother Nature), gave us the kindly fairy as a contrast to Poison Ivy, a charming part nicely done.

Connor Michie (Jack Trott) continues to show improvement, and he obviously enjoyed playing the part, interacting well with Jill and his fellow cast members. 

Chris Fletcher (Tilly Trott) was the archetypal Dame, he looked the part and interacted well with the audience – some good lines delivered with aplomb.

Leo Morawski (Pat the Cow) made the absolute most of his inflatable costume, which allowed him to have facial expressions and animal sound comments, along with several dance numbers, including the Lord of the Dance - such fun, I really enjoyed his portrayal.

Jonathan Goodson (King Dom) gave some gravitas to the proceedings, a good contrast to the other more comic characters, although he did have a few comedic moments!

Victoria Goode (Princess Jill) gave a slightly naïve and diffident portrayal, which suited the part, whilst sharing some nice moments with Jack – I liked this pairing.

Kieran Pritchard (Poison Ivy’s Minion and the Ghost) always delivers an upfront performance, lovely to see him still involved.

Matthew Pritchard (Giant Blunderbore) certainly gave us a great Giant’s roar, and took delight in telling us he didn’t need a mic – great projection and delivery!

All in all a fun evening, with plenty of laughs and audience participation.  Thank you to Square Drama Circle for their continued hospitality.

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