Review: Jack and the Beanstalk is packed full of entertaining panto fun for adults and children
Cast of the Jack and the Bean's Stalk at the Queen's Theatre. - Credit: Archant
When Jack sells his beloved family cow for magic beans, he soon discovers they open up an unexpected world of thrilling adventure.
Claire Greenway as Pat the Cow with the junior chorus in the Queen's Theatre's Jack and the Beanstalk. Photo: Mark Sepple - Credit: Archant
From the start it was clear that this year’s pantomime at the Queen’s Theatre directed by Martin Berry, would keep the audience entertained as the cast lit up the stage with a lively opening number.
The use of live instruments added another element to the show, with the cast accompanying themselves on guitar and drums while singing familiar tunes including Reach for the Stars and The Greatest Showman’s This is Me.
Another notable performance was Claire Greenway’s great moo-sical melody as the stubborn Pat The Cow.
James William-Pattison and John Barr at the Queen's Theatre's Jack and the Beanstalk. Photo: Mark Sepple - Credit: Archant
The Hornchurch theatre continued its tradition of impressive sets as the cast took the audience on a scenic journey from Frank Furter’s Fun Fair to the far-away clouds of the giant’s home.
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James William-Pattison as the hearty Jack, Elizabeth Rowe as Jill Furter, Hollie Cassar as Fortuna, Celia Cruwys-Finnigan as the Queen of Cloudland and Richard Emerson as the Elvis-loving Frank Furter, provided plenty of opportunities for the audience to get involved as they worked towards their goal of defeating the giant and making Furter’s Fun Fair a success.
John Barr as the cheeky Dame Dotty Trott kept the audience on their toes with her witty one-liners and outrageous costumes.
Taylor Rettkle in the Queen's Theatre's pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. Photo: Mark Sepple - Credit: Archant
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She was having so much fun in one scene that when her wig flew off, she remained in character, keeping us laughing throughout the performance.
There was of course many boos as Sheldon Greenland stomped around the stage as the giant and Taylor Rettke terrified the heroes as the evil Hurricane.
Team Candyfloss from the talented young company of 30 schoolchildren, did an amazing job of supporting the cast with their impressive dance moves and vocals.
Ceila Cruwys-Finnigan, James William-Pattison and Elizabeth Rowe in the Queen's Theatre's Jack and the Beanstalk. Photo: Mark Sepple - Credit: Archant
The Queen’s Theatre has transformed the familiar story of a courageous boy and his magic beans into an energetic masterpiece of pantomime fun that has something for the whole family.
Jack and the Beanstalk will be showing at the Queen’s Theatre in Billet Lane, from December 4 to January 6.
To book tickets call the Box Office on 01708 443333 or visit queens-theatre.co.uk.
