Jack and the beanstalk

This panto by Richard Hills involved a lot of nursery-rhyme characters such as Bo Peep, Jack and Jill, Miss Muffet and Little Boy Blue. It was a refreshing version of the well-known story and I found it quite charming. The home-produced scenery and props were excellent. On the whole the lighting and sound effects were complementary and the costumes were fine. The scene changes took place efficiently. All the main characters were nicely portrayed. Phil Darling, a fearsome-looking Blackheart, with the best 'baddie'-type make-up I seen in ages, was extremely effective in his role. Joan King [Silly Billy] and Hilary Wells [Dame Trott] also provided a lot of comedy. Musical accompaniment was via backing tracks. The support from the chorus was good and the pretty dance routines suited the show. Two young girls, Katy Janssen and Emma Hall, were in the guise of Daisy-May, the cow. Newcomers to the stage, their portrayal was especially appealing. There were many opportunities for the all-important audience participation. Congratulations on this entertaining show.

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