Jack and The Beanstalk at Nottingham Playhouse Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Katy Nettleton

The festive season has arrived in grand style at the Nottingham Playhouse with their dazzling Jack and the Beanstalk production. Running until 18 January 2025, this pantomime is a joyful blend of humour, tradition, and inclusivity, ensuring a memorable experience for audiences of all ages.

At the heart of this production’s success is its exceptional cast. John Elkington dazzles as Dame Daisy Trott, bringing infectious energy, razor-sharp comedic timing, and a wardrobe of delightfully outrageous costumes that grow more extravagant as the show progresses. Elkington masterfully balances hilarity with tender moments, captivating the audience from start to finish.

Finton Flynn is thoroughly engaging as the heroic Jack Trott, exuding boyish charm and determination. Jewelle Hutchinson’s delightful Jill perfectly complements his portrayal. Hutchinson’s voice is a revelation, elevating every musical number she performs, while her warmth and natural charisma shine through every scene.

The comedic heartbeat of the production comes from Bradley Judge as Silly Billy Trott, whose slapstick antics and quick wit keep the audience in stitches. Judge’s additional role as Dance Captain ensures the show’s choreography is polished and energetic, adding to the overall vibrancy of the performance. Tom Hopcroft gives a show-stealing performance as the villainous Fleshcreep, blending menace and humour with a magnetic stage presence and commanding voice that earns him a mix of boos and cheers from the crowd.

Caroline Parker’s portrayal of the Fairy Godmother is nothing short of magical. Parker’s use of British Sign Language alongside spoken dialogue adds a ground breaking layer of inclusivity that resonates deeply. The cast signing the final song in BSL is a particularly moving moment, uniting performers and audience in a display of connection and togetherness. My children left the theatre eager to practice the signs they’d learned, a testament to Parker’s inspirational performance. Alice Redmond’s charming portrayal of Pat the Cow adds a playful touch, delighting younger viewers and proving that even supporting characters can steal the spotlight.

The production’s incredible live band deserves special mention. Under the expert musical direction of John Morton, their dynamic performances brought the show’s music to life, perfectly complementing the action on stage. The saxophonist (Ben Martin) stood out with solos that added an extra layer of magic to the production, heightening each moment’s drama, comedy, and emotion. The band’s impeccable timing and vibrant energy kept the momentum alive from start to finish.

Visually, the production is a feast for the eyes. Cleo Pettitt’s imaginative set designs transport the audience from the quaint Trott farm to the breath taking heights of the giant’s cloud-bound castle. The beanstalk itself is a marvel, its towering presence adding a sense of grandeur and magic to the proceedings. Costumes, particularly those of Dame Daisy Trott, are vibrant and inventive, adding to the spectacle and the laughter. The cloud scene is a standout moment, combining whimsical visuals with an enchanting atmosphere that captured the hearts of everyone, especially my daughter.

The show runs for a perfectly timed 2.5 hours, including a 20-minute interval, ensuring it holds the attention of younger viewers while providing plenty of entertainment for adults. The balance of traditional slapstick humour, cleverly placed jokes for all ages, and moments of audience participation make it a quintessential pantomime experience. However, a word of advice—arrive on time, as latecomers are subject to the good-natured hilarity that this theatre thrives upon!

Nottingham Playhouse has truly outdone itself with Jack and the Beanstalk, delivering a festive extravaganza packed with laughter, inclusivity, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re a seasoned panto enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this production will leave you thoroughly enchanted. Tickets are available at nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk.

This is festive theatre at its finest—a FIVE-STAR experience that perfectly captures the magic of Christmas. It gets 5 out of 5 from our family.

Nottingham Playhouse, Wellington Circus, Nottingham, NG1 5AF. Box Office: 0115 941 9419

Rating: 5/5    Ticket prices start from: £19.50.