Theatre review: Jack and the Beanstalk - Perth Theatre
So it’s hardly surprising there are occasional signs of a slight crisis of inspiration in his futuristic version of Jack And The Beanstalk. Jack’s small-town home is dubbed Retropolis, and the giant’s land in the clouds Stratospheria, hardly the catchiest names; the jokes are sometimes too desperately lavatorial to be funny, and local references are scanty.
If the whole show sometimes looks like a crash-course in the art of coarse panto, though – fairy’s wings falling off, Barrie Hunter’s raunchy dame literally feeling her way into the role – Andrew Panton’s production radiates real panto spirit, and an exciting sense of promise, as it pulls together a new panto team for new times.Hunter’s dame (Marge O’Ree, of Marge’s Milk Bar) could speedily mature into something special, Sandy Batchelor and Bethany Compson-Bradford are pretty adorable as Jack and his shouty princess, Lulu; and the choice of songs – featuring great Scottish standards Shout and 500 Miles – is excellent. As is the joyful use of a dancing chorus of local kids. “Oh look, a whole load of wee Proclaimers!” yells Marge, as the tinies arrive on stage with black-rimmed specs and cardboard guitars to perform 500 Miles; and the audience roar their approval straight back, revelling in the happiest and liveliest Perth panto for years.
Rating: ***