Writer: Reece Sibbald
Director: Olivia Sloyan
Jack and the Beanstalk is the second official pantomime at the Epstein Theatre since Regal Entertainments and Bill Elms took over the management of the building. Between the two producers, it’s clear there is a lot of love not only for the building but also for the products they are putting on inside, and Jack and the Beanstalk is a complete and utter success.
This is a Jack and the Beanstalk that celebrates its Liverpudlian roots, from the accents to the local references and even the songs which celebrate the city’s history. The cast are on fine form, energetic and engaging, allowing space for plenty of audience participation and the occasional ad-lib too.
Reece Sibbald’s script doesn’t hold back, it’s a fast-paced production, scenes are short and snappy, and jokes are fired off at an incredible speed – expect the cringy gags, the risqué gags, and occasionally damn right rude, but it’s all in the fun of the show. Director Olivia Sloyan ensures that the show matches Sibbald’s script, no overlong scene changes or set designs – instead, we have a focus on the storytelling and the characters, and it works a treat! Nazene Langfield’s choreography is stunning and puts the adult ensemble and performers through their paces.
In the heroic titular role, Timothy Lucas smashes it out of the ballpark, he’s everything a pantomime leading man should be. He is engaging and a true theatrical triple threat, you can’t help but love his rapscallion ways. Playing his brother Simple Simon, Lewis Devine brings so much energy and comedy to the stage and is the perfect foil for Mark Two’s excellent Dame Trott. Maddie Hope Coelho is a delightful princess and Abigail Middleton ensues boo’s are the order of the day as a sexy and sultry Mrs. Fleshcreep. On press night Jenna Sian O’Hara was sadly out of action as Fairy Mary, but Director Sloyan was able to step into the shoes, in a role that is a perfect fit, not only would you have never known she was covering the role, but she totally owned the stage every time she appeared.
This is one of Regal Entertainment’s best productions; colourful backdrops, sensational lighting designed by Greg Jones, strong musical theatre-based song choices, and a cast that gels perfectly. If you are looking for an Easter Treat then don’t look much further than Jack and the Beanstalk and the Epstein Theatre.
Runs until 24 April 2022