Jack & The Beanstalk

“Pantoland” has been enjoyed by audiences for decades, though to satisfy the more discerning taste above all it is the entertainment value that is of paramount importance and from every aspect this production did not disappoint.

All the essential ingredients were firmly in evidence, performed with sharp comedy and precise timing in this, one of the most traditional of stories.

The village of Piddlington had Dame Hilda Trot ( Paul Wood) as a wonderful pantomime dame for ever looking for “any man” of her dreams. Jack Trot ( Sam Jeffrey) gave a solid performance as principal boy and Jill (Chloe Earl) principal Girl also played her role very well.

Timmy Trot ( Andy Brown) in cheery fashion with the phrase “ Watcha Gang” engaged the audience from the start with a cleverly crafted “awkward “ pose each time he appeared. Other principal roles each made their presence felt with accomplished performances made all the more entertaining with an array of colourful imaginative costumes and effective make up.

All the jokes expected in “pantoland” were present with some highly imaginative and impressive new ones, including some mathematical conundrums.  A brilliant and agile Daisy the Cow (Jessica Dutton & Kayleigh Barker) entertained throughout.

Musical content was thoughtful, enjoyable and full of variety including “ No Business Like Show Business”,” You got a Friend”, “Make You Feel My Love” and supported by the whole company a very special interpretation of “Master of the House” from Giant Blackheart ( Tam Weir ) and Beryl Blackheart ( Michelle Lambon).

The whole set brought colour and life for this well-known tale and the use of special effects to enable the Giant complete with magnificent beard reduced to a younger version in the same apparel was a real spectacle.

The finale of “I’m a Believer” was a fitting piece to end a thoroughly enjoyable evening and if anyone thinks pantomime is a dying entertainment, on this evidence audiences young and old have much to enjoy for many years to come…. Oh yes they have!!.

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