REVIEW | Jack and the Beanstalk, Belgrade Theatre
Photo: Nicola Young
For fans of Coventry’s annual pantomime, their December isn’t complete without a trip to the Belgrade Theatre.
Jack and the Beanstalk was previously planned back in 2020. The production was a victim of the pandemic and instead, an online production was created and received by people around the world.
This year’s production of Jack and the Beanstalk is their fastest-selling pantomime and I know absolutely why. Belgrade Theatre produces a distinctive experience for the whole family to enjoy. It is non-stop joy with Mark Walters’ lavish scenery, a show-stopping giant, a quality cast and a well-written story containing a solid amount of modern references.
The story takes place in the small village of Prickly Bottom where the evil giant Blunderbore is causing havoc! It’s down to Jack to save the village from the grip of this giant. We meet a few other characters along the way including the Giant’s evil henchman, Andy Hockley who is wickedly fun and Morna MacPherson who comfortably steps into the boots of Jack, reprising the role from the 2020 online production.
Photo: Nicola Young
Masters of their craft, Iain Lauchlan once again writes a show that leaves a lasting memory for the family. His writing has incorporated great audience participation and a good sing-a-long to get you into the forefront of the action. They say you shouldn’t work with children and/or animals but they certainly do in this show with side-splitting results. It’s a pantomime that keeps on giving and deserves all of the awards for its execution in delivery. Craig Hollingsworth, another household name in the Belgrade Theatre during the festive season is fantastic as Simon Trot He executes his lines well and is adored by the audience. The Belgrade Theatre would be lost without this duo and it’s their collective hard work and passion which makes the pantomime the success that it is!
As well as the main cast this year’s ensemble was just as fantastic. This year they’ve once again auditioned young people to perform in the show and they absorb every opportunity to shine when it counts! Jenny Phillips’ choreography is vibrant and well integrated into the overall finishing piece.
This year’s pantomime at Belgrade Theatre should be in your festive plans! It’s a loud and proud production of an age-old form of live theatre. It’s not like other pantomimes across the country which sell their seats by having celebrity names in the cast, they proudly serve up reliable local legends and good honest fun.
It’s always a highlight of the season for me and Jack and the Beanstalk was definitely no different. We all know that the cost of living will make it difficult for some people to enjoy live theatre this Christmas. However, if there is one pantomime you are looking to put your money into this festive season…make it this one. Jack and the Beanstalk is jam-packed with everlasting joy!
Book your tickets for Jack and the Beanstalk. Performing at the Belgrade Theatre until 7 January 2023.
*Disclaimer: AD | Gifted Tickets
