Jock and the Beanstalk, Pavilion Theatre Glasgow Review
Written by Jacqueline for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Please note that this production includes flashing lights and loud noises throughout.
This week, Glasgow’s Pavilion theatre kicked off the festive season with their delightfully Scottish telling of Jack and the Beanstalk- aptly titled Jock and the Beanstalk. When his family end up in a tricky financial situation, Jock finds himself selling his beloved cow Buttercup in exchange for some magic beans. Next thing we know, the family are under attack from a terrifying giant who lives up the beanstalk!
Like many fairytales, Jock and the Beanstalk is a story with a simple plot. Having said that, this production runs at around two hours and thirty minutes. Liam Dolan’s script is full of eclectic segues and side plots, from the contents of a supermarket shopping trolley to a headless ghost. Some of these gags included nods and references to previous Pavilion productions, a little wink-wink nudge-nudge to audience members who attend the panto annually. One of the joys of panto is the niche local humour that might not necessarily make sense to an outsider. As a non-Glaswegian, there were definitely a few references that went over my head, but these were quick enough that they didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the show at all. The special mention of Wagamama (the sponsor of this production) was also done in an incredibly tongue-in-cheek manner.
The energy of the cast was absolutely electric from start to finish. Each of the main cast are panto regulars, and it was clear why- they bounced off of each other seamlessly, looking as though they were having an absolute blast from start to finish. Jock and the Beanstalk incorporates an abundance of iconic songs ensuring that there Is something for all ages- rather than falling into the trap of just using the entire Top 40 from the year so far! From the Friends theme tune to Copacabana to KPop Demon Hunters, every song was met with a knowing laugh. Stephanie Fulton’s choreography complemented each song perfectly, and was plentiful and energetic.
Iain MacPherson’s set design and Jason Taylor’s lighting design combine beautifully to create a visual feast for the audience. Like many newer productions, Jock and the Beanstalk uses digital screens rather than painted curtains, to great effect. Having said that, there are plenty of props that ensure the stage feels full. Though I don’t want to give too much away, it would be remiss of me to not mention the puppetry used throughout this production, which left the audience awwwing, gasping and cheering!
Up and down the country, pantos are popping up on every corner of every city. Jock and the Beanstalk easily holds its own as a highlight of the Scottish panto scene, as well as being a notably more affordable alternative to other pantos in the central belt. If you're looking for a festive treat for the whole family, this show is a must-see!
Plays until 11 January 2026
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
