Jack and the Beanstalk

It was lovely to be back in Ormskirk visiting Pleasure folk and seeing their very entertaining production of the traditional pantomime “Jack and the Beanstalk” written by Alan P Frayn and directed by the talented Gemma Briscoe.

The show was packed full of all the traditional pantomime experiences that audiences have associated with this genre over the years. All the cast worked with enthusiasm and lots of energy working together as a team, there were no weak links and the audience were treated to a wonderful afternoons entertainment. 

There were very good performances from Ciara McEntee as Jack and Beth McClelland as Princess Charlotte who complemented each other very well, both singing beautifully, their voices blending together well.  Then we had strong performances from Jim Briscoe as Dame Dotty Dimple and Scott Allen as Simple Simon who both commanded the stage and had an excellent rapport with the audience which is very important when playing these iconic pantomime comedy roles. Katie Geldart as Snatchet and Liz Wainwright as Scarper The Brokers Men made a very good comedy duo playing well off each other and demonstrating good comic timing.The King and Queen were played by Steve and Becky Coghlan. I loved the way they strutted in time with the music as they walked on the stage and I really enjoyed Steve’s rendition of one of my favorite musical theatre songs namely  “This is the Moment” from the show 'Jeckle and Hyde'.  Then we had the giant's Henchman, Rancid the Ratman, played by Mark Charnock who was suitably menacing and sneaky. There were two magical members of the cast, the Bad Witch Piccalilli played by Jamie Mather, who got her comeuppance in the end with the help of her nemesis Fairy Stardust, played by Olivia Salters - they both produced excellent opposing characterizations which were just right for the story. Other roles were nicely played by Kevin Bridge as Humphrey, Emily Mayne as the Harp and Louisa, and Miles Gardner as buttermilk and Archie. Then last, but not least, the giant, played by Rob Bailey.  Dialogue was clear and could be followed easily and the pace of the show was just right. There was generally a very good rapport between the cast and the audience with lots of good comic timing which is very important in this genre for the success of the production. 

There was a junior and adult chorus who all appeared to be enjoying themselves immensely while supporting the principal cast . The lively and enjoyable Choreography was by Liz Wainwright with additional choreography by Beth McClelland and Eden Wainwright. All the routines were performed very well by the cast. I enjoyed all the numbers and I will say the UV lighting number was very effective.

Musical numbers were accompanied by backing music and also a very good live band led by musical director Nancy Wells on Keyboard, Marley Brennan also on keyboard, Vince Wilcox on drums with Emily Chapple playing flute.

Scenery was provided by both Proscenium and in house by Pleasure folk, which along with very good technical input such as lighting and sound and colourful costumes that were just right for the characters and the production, added to the success and authenticity of the show. Well done to all the efficient stage crew and all backstage workers enabling the smooth running of the show. 

Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this excellent Pantomime to the stage. I know it hasn’t been easy due to Covid and all the restrictions we as a country have gone through. Thank you very much for inviting us. We had a lovely, happy afternoon which we all need in this present climate.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.