Jack and the Beanstalk at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Alexander Wilde
Fee-fi-fo-fum, head to Stafford for panto fun!
It’s officially Christmas – panto season returns with a production of Jack and the Beanstalk at the fantastic Gatehouse Theatre in Stafford! A small theatre, with a big heart, this Staffordshire gem is the quintessential venue in which to enjoy the magic and marvel of pantomime.
It was a drizzly December night, on our first visit to the Gatehouse, but the evening was full of festive cheer as families and friends were greeted warmly by the staff that keep this intimate theatre thriving. Santa was mingling with the patrons and was a lovely surprise for the children in attendance. There was a buzz in the air as we settled into our comfortable seats and waited for the curtain to rise.
Welcoming us to the village of Merrydale, in Old Stafford Town, the dazzling and lyrical Fairy Faraway (Wendy Abrahams) opened the show with the customary prologue – the Giant Blunderbore is terrorising the Kingdom; with regular snacking from farm and field, what can be done to protect the folk from his fork? Family Trot have certainly had enough and are down on their luck. Will their fortunes change? Can Jack defeat the Giant and win the heart of Princess Jill?
Star of stage and screen, Mark Rhodes, the lovable compère, ‘Lazy’ Larry Trot, brother of the titular star, brings down the house and delights with clever and quick lines, physical and side-splitting comedy. He performs with glee and a natural ability to connect with the audience, he quickly established a strong bond for the inevitable back and forth exchanges and active audience participation. As is panto trope, as the hapless sidekick, he is also looking for love. As moo-ving as her story is, it won’t be with the beloved Buttercup the family cow, but could there be an unexpected change of heart from another?
Ollie Hart-Bradford plays the loveable Jack Trot. Relishing his performance with a genuine warmth, Ollie was super in every scene. But none more so in his interactions with his character’s family. It was great fun when the ‘script slipped’, usually because of David Phipps-Davis – and how Ollie and Mark handled these moments, was a delight. Without a doubt, the cast were having a fun time too!
As Jack’s love interest, Sophie Kandola (Princess Jill), lights up the stage; the chemistry between the two and their co-stars was impeccable. They invested a great deal into their roles and will undoubtedly be stars to watch.
With more than a bosom full of double entendres and extravagant costumes (which are an attraction in their own right), David Phipps-Davis takes on the traditional dame role as Jack’s mother – Tilly Trot. He’s purely puntastic and spars perfectly with everyone on stage. Most definitely a favourite of young and old alike and in his 30th year on the panto stage. The writing and costuming team did an incredible job with this character.
With no small parts: Wink Taylor as Squire Penkridge, Jill’s father, and possibly the puppeteer of the rather cheeky rodent ‘Theo the Mouse’; and Samantha Spragg as Poison Ivy, villainous underling of Blunderbore, complete the line-up. The cohesion on stage throughout was notable.
Complementing the cast throughout the production were a brilliant ensemble, some of whom were making their panto and professional debuts. Alongside them were a terrific troop of Junior actors who performed exceptionally well. These future stars were fully invested and enjoying their part in the extravaganza; singing and dancing their hearts out.
Furthermore, extraordinary recognition goes to the small orchestral and technical team – impressive staging and costuming, uplifting tunes with perfectly timed sound, practical and visual effects too.
Overall, the scene changes and musical interludes were punchy and perfectly balanced for the audience age range. The pop hits were very current and always had the audience bopping along. The narrative flowed easily and we were left wanting more. Superb writing and direction, with strong production values.
You know the story, magic beans n’ all… however this terrific tale will keep you hooked and laughing until the very end. My only wish is the show could have lasted longer; it was simply magnificent! Before you go to market, book your tickets to Old Stafford Town this year, because panto season is magical and not to be missed! Jack and the Beanstalk at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre is a spellbinding and winter treat for the whole family.
Rating: 4/5 Four gigantic Stars
Running until 5th January 2025, with tickets priced from £19. Book online, visit www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk or call the Box Office 01785 619080
Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Eastgate Street, Stafford ST16 2LT
The charming Gatehouse Theatre stands within the heart of the clean, well-lit, and popular Staffordshire County Town.
The main foyer is elegant, providing easy access to all levels and toilets. You are sure of a warm greeting and a great atmosphere. The bar and café is well manned, stocked and of standard prices for theatres. The tiered auditorium seats are very comfortable and provide excellent views of the stage.
The Theatre is surrounded by a range of bars, restaurants, and accommodation options for a wonderful day or night out in the bustling town. Arriving by car, routes to the theatre were well signposted and nearby parking is plentiful. The town is also well served by train and bus stops, within walking distance.