Jack and the Beanstalk
This sparkly, no expense spared pantomime, playing at the New Wimbledon Theatre, is a delightful reimagining of Jack and the Beanstalk that will have you in stitches from start to finish and offers something for everyone.
The traditional story, of course, is familiar to anyone who has ever picked up a fairy tale, this production however, brings new layers to the narrative, adding unexpected humour, vibrant characters, and modern sensibilities that refresh the well-worn story.
Jack (Benjamin Yates) brings a perfect mix of charm and youthful energy to the title role. His chemistry with Natalie Chua as lovable Jill is ideal as they go on a quest to defeat the miserable Giant and his evil wife Mrs Blunderbore (Alexandra Burke) as she reprises the role after a successful run at the London Palladium. Burke shines in this production bursting into song with all her hits from the charts over the years, epic vocals and she makes a perfect villain.
Dame Trott (Ceri Dupree) is a particular highlight playing alongside son Simple Simon (Joe Pasquale) with the duo's comic timing driving the slapstick humour of the production. The Dame's outfits, as always, are fabulously outlandish, each more garish than the last, providing laughs even before a word is spoken. Joe Pasquale steals the show as Simple Simon. I think it’s remarkable that he can still command the stage, bouncing around like the old days with so much energy. His jokes, often surrounding toilet humour, have the kids in stitches but also the script is perfectly crafted to keep the adults engaged too and boy we’re laughing out loud a lot.
Having seen more Pantomimes over the years than I care to mention it can get a bit repetitive, however, I do think Crossroads Pantomimes have nailed it this year. Ria Jones (Spirit of The Beans) is a friendly face for the children, speaking in rhyming couplets and bringing festive magic to the show as Jack and their friends defeat the Giant. The cast is so strong you’ll struggle to choose your favourites.
Not only starring in the show but also Co-Director, Joe Pasquale keeps the pace brisk, ensuring the plot never lags. The jokes come thick and fast as only expected from such a comic genius, mostly cheeky enough for adults to snigger at while remaining accessible for younger audiences or going straight over their heads. This production knows its audience, with playful references to pop culture and witty dialogue that nods to both traditional Panto lovers and the new generation.
The ensemble are the magical beans that hold this piece together, adding a lively and whimsical touch to the show, turning each scene into an opportunity for a new adventure. I am not sure what I was expecting, but when the Giant made an appearance towering over the cast and audience in an ingenious costume and complemented by impressive special effects, the Giant’s booming voice and mischievous antics created a thrilling villain that managed to be both fearsome for the children and impressive for the adults.
Visually, the production is a triumph. The set takes us from Jack's humble cottage to the ethereal, cloud-filled world at the top of the beanstalk with ease. The use of projections and lighting is particularly effective, creating a sense of wonder as Jack ascends to the giant’s lair, with colors and shapes dancing across the stage. The iconic beanstalk itself is a showstopper rising majestically from the orchestra pit; it is the perfect blend of practical and digital effects, providing a sense of awe and spectacle as Simple Simon takes off on a flying motorbike, the audience didn’t know where to look.
In short, Jack and The Beanstalk is a heart-warming, laugh-out-loud spectacle that will entertain both the young and the young at heart. It's a testament to the enduring power of panto to bring together generations for a shared experience of joy, laughter, and wonder. Whether you're seeing it for the first time or revisiting a familiar story, this production is sure to leave you smiling and perhaps dreaming of your beanstalk adventure. With so much crammed in to the show, you’ll definitely get your monies worth. Book now, you won’t be disappointed.
You can watch our interviews with Joe Pasquale and Alexandra Burke here: https://youtu.be/nMWmsQDDFRY?si=8X7PUQynAjp0url8
This show was reviewed on the 10th December 2024 at the New Wimbledon Theatre, London where it runs until the 5th January 2025. Tickets available here: Jack and the Beanstalk Tickets | New Wimbledon Theatre in Greater London | ATG Tickets
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Photo credit: Danny Kaan
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