Jack And The Beanstalk At St.Helens Theatre Royal Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Rebecca Banasko
If you’re looking for something to do this half-term then look no further than St Helens Theatre Royal, they’ve got you covered with their brilliant pantomime; Jack and the Beanstalk. St. Helens Theatre Royal are well-versed at putting on pantomimes for the entire family but this half-term they have really switched it up. You are guaranteed a fun afternoon or evening out with the family, in a wonderful friendly and welcoming theatre.
This performance felt fresh with its take on the classical story in which we follow Jack (played by David Heath of X Factor fame) on his adventure as he falls in love with the beautiful Princess Jill (played by Lauren McCrory) and endeavours to help his family through some difficult times in the face of the evil Fleshcreep (played by Rachael Wood) and of course the scary Giant, who does make an impressive appearance and yes he really is a giant! Things are not helped by Jack’s clumsy but loveable brother Simple Simon (played by the hilarious Lewis Devine) and his long suffering mother Dame Trott (played by Richard Aucott) who didn’t fail to bring the glamour and eccentric costumes! A real highlight for me was the character of Fairy Mary (played by Kay Nicholson) who was brilliant with her deadpan humour and her northern twist, I love what she brought to the story.
The whole performance felt effortless but fun and it was easy to get lost in the silliness and dance along to the fabulous music that spanned eras – there really was something in there for everyone. The set and costumes were dazzling and the background dancers were wonderful to watch. There really was a giant beanstalk and some great little touches that added a whole other dynamic to the show and made it all come alive. Watching my 4 year old nephew’s face as he took it all in was just magical. There were jokes for the children as well as the mums and dads and everyone in the audience was having a wonderful time; shouting, cheering and whooping at every opportunity.
This panto only runs for a week, until 22nd February with shows running every day throughout half-term and twice on the weekend, so this is your warning, don’t walk – run!!! Grab your tickets now, get the kids out of the house and enjoy some good old fashioned fun with a modern twist – you won’t regret it. Tickets cost £26 for children and £28 for adults with concessions available and can be purchased at https://www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com/show/873679382/
The theatre is really conveniently located in the centre of St. Helens with good public transport nearby as well as a car park just 5 minute’s walk away. Jack and the Beanstalk is a must see, and a really wholesome and fun time to spend with the family during the school holidays. I recommend it to everyone young and old and give it 5/5 stars for the sheer fun and escapism of modern life.
Rating: 5/5