Jack and the Beanstalk, Nottingham Playhouse Review
The cast of Jack and the Beanstalk. Photo by Pamela Raith
Written by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
The Nottingham Playhouse pantomime is a cherished tradition in the city, bringing over 30 years of joy and memories to the community. This year’s production of Jack and the Beanstalk, written and directed by the talented Adam Penford, is a truly giant success. It has all of the elements you need for a solid pantomime; packed with a clever script, tradition, a splash of pop culture, and cheeky innuendos to keep the adults entertained, it’s a festive treat that has something for everyone!
Penford’s script sticks to the traditional story - a young boy trades his family’s cow for magic beans, only to discover they grow into a beanstalk which towers over their home and leads to a giant’s castle above the clouds. With bravery and quick wit, Jack embarks on an adventure to outsmart the fearsome giant and save his family’s future. Add in some playful nods to Nottingham and some spontaneous dance numbers to give you one hell of a joyous show!
Within the first ten minutes of the curtain rising, Dame Daisy Trot, played by Nottingham Playhouse panto legend John Elkington, is already in full swing—playfully heckling a latecomer and announcing the “most important member of the audience.” Elkington’s magnetic stage presence keeps the audience captivated throughout, and alongside the hilarious Silly Billy, brought to life by Bradley Judge, the pair form an unforgettable comic duo. Their off-the-cuff humour and infectious energy light up the stage, making them the beating heart of this year’s pantomime.
Jack and Jill, played by Jewelle Hutchinson and Finton Flynn, share fantastic on-stage chemistry, with their rendition of Jess Glynne’s Hold My Hand standing out as a memorable highlight. Hutchinson, returning to Nottingham after her award-winning performance in last year’s Cinderella, shines in her new role, while Flynn’s natural charm and captivating energy make him instantly likeable.
Tom Hopcroft delivers a fantastic performance as Fleshcreep, the Giant’s menacing henchman, relishing every boo from the audience with wicked delight. His standout moment comes during the hilariously clever rendition of If I Wasn’t in Pantomime. Even Pat the Cow, played by Alice Redmond, steals a few laughs with some brilliantly cheeky contributions. Caroline Parker's portrayal of the Fairy Godmother left a lasting impression. A talented performer, Parker seamlessly incorporates British Sign Language into her character's delivery, and this thoughtful touch extends throughout the production, with the choreographer Rosanna Bates weaving it into the performance in a delightful and meaningful way.
If you want to hear Ian McKellen in panto you can in Nottingham with his voice being used for the giant, wait for the unforgettable Lord of the Rings to be a hit with audiences during their visit.
We can’t overlook the talented young ensemble, who do an outstanding job of bringing the musical numbers to life within the storyline. Their energy and enthusiasm shine through, clearly showing the audience how much fun they’re having being part of this year’s production.
I have to say it—Nottingham Playhouse might just offer the best pantomime in the East Midlands this year! You won’t be disappointed; this production of Jack and the Beanstalk will leave you feeling uplifted and full of festive cheer!
At Nottingham Playhouse until 18 January 2025. Nottingham Playhouse will be providing Captioned, Audio Described, BSL, Relaxed and Dementia Friendly performances during their run.
★★★★★
