Jack and the Beanstalk
The Hexagon
Until January 2, 2023
Whatsonreading.com
0118 960 6060
ONCE again, Imagine Theatre has delivered a show that will be the beanstalk of the town. It’s a knockout.
Jack and the Beanstalk opened on Saturday, December 3, at The Hexagon, much to the delight of a packed auditorium.
The show is a wonder from start to finish, with plenty of laughs and action. It’s an all-singing, all-dancing affair that, thanks to the return of the junior ensemble, takes panto back to the pre-pandemic phase.
Regular audiences will be pleased to note that all the favourite set pieces are there – the slosh is messy, there are still 12 days to Christmas and a conveniently placed bench allows the cast to have a singalong to Ghostbusters.
But there’s also enough that’s new or different to ensure it feels fresh and the audience more than gets their money’s worth, especially with the bell ringers – to say any more would spoil the fun.
The show opens with Rachel Delooze’s Fairy Bluebell setting the scene and enjoying some verbal duelling with Ryan Alexander-Full’s Walter Botemme, the Fleshcreep role. Her entrance sparkles, his sees him slide around.
The opening routine sees us meet Jack, played by Carl Tracey. His amazing voice is a joy to listen to, and he has a great stage presence.
He introduces us to the princess, played by Katsie Fong Frydenberg, and their budding romance. This is Katsie’s first time at The Hexagon, but she also has a beautiful voice and great stage presence, something that came to the fore during their duet of I Know Him So Well.
Returning, thankfully because he is so good, is Paul Morse, playing Nanny Hydrangea Trott, once again relishing his role. From the get-go, he has the audience eating out of his gloved palm, interacting, interjecting and cajoling them on. He is a master of his trade, and it is a joy to see him on stage.
Also back is CBeebies superstar Justin Fletcher, playing the son of Nanny Trott. Quite literally the butt of jokes, he is at turns charming, naughty, nice and hilarious. He also has some great songs that showcase his talents, which go far beyond playing the clown on Something Special.
Of course, the interaction between Justin and Paul is what brings added depth to the show. Their comic timing is immaculate, and their working relationship so strong that you can never tell what is planned and what is the spur of the moment.
Long may their residencies continue.
Completing the main cast is Colleen Daley, as the Queen, who adds sparkle whenever she is on stage.
Also making special guest appearances are Buttercup the cow, and the big not-so friendly giant. Both have limited roles but add so much to the show.
There’s more to a pantomime than corny jokes, slapstick action and big numbers. The elements that come together include the sets, the music, and the lighting. This year, it is all top-notch.
From start to finish, Jack and the Beanstalk is a fantastic show and all ages will love it.
PHIL CREIGHTON
