Jack And The Beanstalk opened last night at The Regent to a high-flying start of a run that will last into the new year.
Jack Trott (Jonathan Wilkes), Farmer Trott (Kai Owens) and Princess Jill (Michelle Andrews) are living under the shadow of the giants and their servant Fleshcreep (Noel Sullivan). Having plundered the farms, their beloved cow Daisy is next on the list. Aided by the Spirit Of The Beans (Rio Maye) will they overcome the giants once and for all? And…. will Beryl Smith be in attendance to celebrate her milestone birthday?
Visually the production was stunning. From the intricate sets, the costumes, the giants and the 3D effects, it wowed from the start.
Stoke favourite Jonathan Wilkes continues his amazing run as the stalwart of panto at The Regent. His rapport with the crowd is so natural and we cant imagine a Christmas without him. He’s cheeky, energetic and the crowd love that about him.
Joining him again is Kai Owen who provides Jonny’s comedic partner. The chemistry is evident and the jokes, gags and improv flow freely between the two.
Noel Sullivan plays the villainous Fleshcreep who gives his all and gets the chemistry spot on between himself and the audience and as expected, his vocals were fantastic. Especially funny was the skit with Jonny and Kai (no spoilers) where he excelled and between the three, caused raucous laughter in the audience.
Michelle Andrews was great as Princess Jill and her vocals were spot on. She added much during the ‘If I Were Not Upon The Stage scene’ making us all laugh. Rio Maye was equally able during her vocal performances and carried off her role and rhyming couplets well.
Hats off to the dancers from The Wilkes’ Academy who worked really hard and also impressed with the occasional gymnastic flip during the routines.
Theres’ several nod’s to the local area, the opening song as well as a well re-written ditty from ‘Pirates Of Penzance’ which was expertly executed by Kai Owen. You can see how much it means to Jonny and the team to be doing panto in Stoke.
There’s jokes for mums and dads as well as the children and a joyous time can be banked on. Its energetic, wildly entertaining and visually brilliant. Its panto with pizzazz!
Make sure you make a visit. Its on until 7th January and have several matinee performances. Tickets are available from the box office or online here https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/jack-and-the-beanstalk/regent-theatre/
Photo Credit: Clara Lou Photography
