JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Paignton Pantomime Productions The Palace Theatre

 Director: Iain Douglas. Choreographers: Elaine Johnson and Amanda Coote. M.D. John Amery

This pantomime had good pace from the start, although it did have a first half that was just that little too long. Pantomime is family entertainment and children do get fidgety. However there was much to keep the audience entertained and lots of audience participation, which was enjoyed by the children. Simple Simon built up a fabulous rapport with the audience, his performance had tremendous energy and he was loved by all. Jack gave a vibrant performance with some excellent singing and Piccalilli the Witch was the one we loved to hate. Fairy Sugardust was a lovely contrast to Piccalilli, but needed to slow her dialogue down as it was not always very clear. I felt the Bakery scene could have been cut from the first half, some of the action was in “bad taste” especially when the rest of the pantomime was very definitely and well aimed at children. The costumes were excellent. They were bright and colourful and sparkled against some very good scenery. The choreography was energetic and well rehearsed with “The Ugly Bug Ball” performed by the young dancers a particular highlight. The balance was good between the singing and the band and it was fun to see the band joining in with the action. Some brilliant props had been created by the Gilderthorp team and they must be given full marks for the creation of Buttermilk the Cow, who more than stole the show whenever on stage. The pantomime ended with a glamorous last golden scene and good fun was had by all.