From the opening minute Jack and the Beanstalk was a real treat. The usual tried and tested lines survive but the show is a laugh a minute and has something for everyone.
A great set, brilliant costumes and in true pantomime style, some slapstick humour. The second half contains 3D scenes which provide realism and allow all of us to enter the land of the Giant and see the hero win the day.
Noel Sullivan plays the part of Fleshcreep and sets just the right tone with his performance as the villian. He has an excellent rapport with the cast and audience. Kai Owen, now a regular at the Regent for Panto season is Farmer Trot and interacts so well with Jonathan Wilkes as you would imagine after 9 years. Rio Maye as Spirit of the Beans weaves in and out of the story along with Michelle Andrews who plays the part of Princess Jill and they are the perfect foils to the humour of the remainder of the cast as they move the story along.
Special mention to the “animals” and ensemble who worked so hard to make the show a resounding success along with the band. The music is a real treat.
Jonathan Wilkes leaves us all in no doubt regarding how he feels about Stoke on Trent and how much his yearly visit to the area means to him. The show is funny with a great deal of warmth and should not be missed. As he says, we love this City and with great songs, choreography, costumes and set we love this panto too.
The opening night audience gave the cast a well deserved standing ovation. I am certain that this will not be the only ovation this panto receives.
Jack and the Beanstalk runs until Sun 7th Jan 2024
Tickets available https://www.atgtickets.com
Photo courtesy of Clara Lou Photography
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