Jack & The Beanstalk Panto At Festival Theatre Edinburgh Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Lynsey
Back at the Festival Theatre, the magic of pantomime is alive again with this year’s dazzling production of Jack & the Beanstalk. Very loosely based on the legendary tale of the young boy who swaps his prize cow for some magic beans, which grow into a beanstalk that lead him to a giant he must defeat.
Of course, no Edinburgh panto would be complete without the legendary comic trio, Allan Stewart, Grant Stott and Jordan Young. Bringing as always, an infectious energy to the stage.
Grant Stott, donning the mantle of the villain we all love to hiss and boo at, is simply brilliant as Fleshcreep. His flair for wickedness, coupled with just the right amount of mischief, makes him a standout. His antics are perfectly balanced with Allan Stewart, who returns as Dame May McTrot aka Aunt May in a whirlwind of outrageous costumes and quick-witted humour. And let’s not forget the daft but very lovable and my personal favourite Jordan Young as Jack, who the kids all adore. His slapstick routines had everyone laughing out loud. Together, they are the ultimate team of silliness. At times it is difficult to know what is scripted and what is not. They genuinely seem to have such fun performing, and their infectious joy spreads throughout the theatre.
A mark of any great panto is the audience participation, and Jack and the Beanstalk delivers in spades. From the good old boo’ing to shouting and dancing to picking on some audience members for a bit of cheeky banter. The timing is impeccable, and the improvisation seeming authentic. It really has something for everyone with its clever blend of slapstick and topical humour and the cast’s ability to engage with the audience, ensures that everyone feels part of the fun.
Joining the cast again this year is Clare Gray as Pat the Cow who doesn’t just moo, Gail Watson and Amber Sylvie Edwards who bring a little elegance to the production as the Spirit of the Beans and Princess Jill. The costumes I think are even more dazzling this year and the stage design more grand and magical, with dramatic backdrops, and just enough pizzazz to transport you straight to the fairy tale world.
The Festival Theatre itself is the perfect venue for a family outing. Modern, spacious, with friendly staff, bars and snack stalls. Its prime location in the heart of Edinburgh, it’s easy to make a night of it with easy access by public transport and some parking close by. Grab a bite or drink at the theatre itself before the show or at a nearby restaurant or bar after the show—there are plenty of options.
We had a great day shouting and laughing from beginning to end watching the legendary line up get up to their old panto tricks. I would recommend the show to all audiences – young and old, families, couples or friends – there is something for everyone. I would give a very merry five stars out of five for this Christmas cracker of a panto!
Rating: 5/5
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