JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

This fun-filled family pantomime had every element a traditional panto should have – kicking off with a fantastic rendition of “Mr Blue Sky” by ELO, to put everyone in a good mood on a fairly dreary January evening.

Jack and The Beanstalk, written by Keith Marsden and Geoffrey Rundle, was full of panto tradition from beginning to end.  Co-incidentally this was the first panto that Keighley AODS ever performed in 1965.

Fairy Starlight played by Leah Ogrizovic, first came onto the stage in a puff of traditional “fairy” smoke.  I loved the way she delivered her lines throughout the panto – always with a cheeky smile on her face!

 The main character in this whole panto is, of course, Jack Trot played by Georgia Wowk.  Georgia has a fabulous singing voice, and great stage presence.  It’s the first time I have seen her play Principle Boy at KAODS, but I think she has a great future ahead of herself in this role.

It is Jack Trots job to win over the heart of Sue, the Squire’s daughter, who was played by Stephanie Laycock.  Her duets with “Jack” were lovely to listen to, and she was lovely to watch.

 Josh Breeze as Dame Trot and Philip Smith as her other son Jimmy Trot worked brilliantly together.  Their comic timing was excellent and Philip Smith is a “natural” in the part of the “daft lad” of the panto.

 There was great support from Mark Coulthard as Squire Grabbem, and the Giants Private Eyes Bertie and Sammy, played by Danny Duckworth and Elliot Green, were great as the bumbling duo. 

 Jessie The Cow was brilliant – I loved the way she tap danced, and had us laughing out loud in the “milking” scene. 

 Credit must also go to Giant Grimm – who managed to move around the stage with ease in spite of his incredible size!

 The cast of singers and dancers gave us an action packed evening.  Their singing and dancing was fantastic, and the costumes were excellent.

 The band, under the musical direction of Geoff Garrett played superbly throughout.  They never drowned out the singing of the performers.  Everyone could be heard at all times and the volume of the band was never too loud.  There was a great musical selection to please everyone in the audience.

 With fabulous scenery, props and superb lighting, sound effects (well done – they were never missed or late!) and pyrotechnics this panto couldn’t fail to entertain. 

It was great to see so many people after the show waiting for their chance to take a “selfie” with the cast!

Thank you for a great evening’s entertainment.

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