Jack and the Beanstalk at Tamworth Assembly Rooms Review
Written by Charis for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
This year’s chosen Tamworth Panto is Jack and the Beanstalk, which is brought to the stage in a new partnership with Laughing Bulldog events. Full of adventure, comedy, live music, superb acting and incredible costume and sets.
The performance took the classic we all know, Jack and the Beanstalk, sprinkled in some local references and jokes and performed it in a way that has not been seen previously. Pantomimes are often advertised as fun for all ages, but they lack elements that are enjoyable to adults. This pantomime did not struggle in this aspect and certainly had aspects for all ages! The funniest element of the piece by far was Simon’s dating ordeal, full of snippets of songs chosen specifically with each one even funnier than the last.
The inclusion of an audience member into the jokes means that even if you were to view the pantomime multiple times, you would be able to see some differences each night, which added to the overall experience.
Every aspect you would expect to find in a classic pantomime could be seen within the piece, but it did not feel overdone in the slightest. There is the classic good vs bad, the pantomime dame, audience participation in booing, cheering, his behind you moments and many others. In a narrow field this performance felt different to other pantomimes. Arguably, it is possibly the best pantomime of the year.
Every element shows as carefully chosen which has paid off incredibly well in their favour. Set designer Peter Freeth designed some beautiful and creative sets showcasing areas of Tamworth such as the castle while also fitting the pantomime theme exceptionally well. Emma Freeth’s curtain design also have a creative and traditional feel to them. Each song referenced or parodied has been carefully chosen by musical director Tim Robinson to ensure it hits the nail with the reaction from the audience. Live band members Tim Robinson, Helen Shelton, Matt Barks and Dave Hanson also enhanced the experience for the audience on the night. Choreography by Olivia Joy Shepherd is simple, accessible and adds the right amount of extra to each scene, playing into the magical feel. The creative elements alongside the writing and direction by Sam Beech results in Jack and the Beanstalk being one of the strongest pantomimes (and something incredibly special!)
Each of the actors clearly wanted to be on that stage performing, they work incredibly well together and watching them giggle, sing and act together is the best part of the panto. The clear star of the show was Sam Beech as the loveable but dim Simon Trott. Delivering his lines with such comedic effect straight to the audience, knowing when to continue jokes and when to end them. Even though he certainly was the star of the show despite the name he does ensure that the other actors were able to shine to. The Tamworth panto team come across as a family that care about each other. William Witt as Jack Trott and Chelsie Faulks as Jill Crumble are a great paring and really have chemistry together. Chelsie’s singing is possibly the best of the show, and it was surprising to see power and range in vocals in a panto in this size. Jill got to have her moments and did not need Jack for everything which made a refreshing change from the usual helpless pantomime dame. Jack Gamble showed a strong yet different performance Dame as Dotty Trott. He embraced the role entirety which is always needed in the role but also managed to bring new elements to it and as a result it did not feel like a stereotypical performance. Lauren Margaret is a light and airy Fairy Flora. She brings the sassy but down-to-earth requirements for the role to the stage. Ricardo Alexander is the perfect pantomime villain a fleeshcreep and it was so easy to hate him which is a testament to his acting. Charlie Mills was funny in the short amount of time he was as mayor crumble. Finally, we have Olivia Joy Shepherd’s performance as daisy, she has superb stage presence, was comedic and makes it incredibly easy to love a cow. It must be handed to her for her superb performance all while in a cow suit.
Overall, Jack and the Beanstalk is a huge credit to everyone involved in its production and performance. If you enjoy traditional English comedy and are looking for two hours well spent, you won’t be disappointed by a visit to this pantomime.
Plays until 17 January 2026
★★★★★
