REVIEW: Jack And The Beanstalk The Giant 3D Pantomime Spectacular - Liverpool Empire Theatre

Qdos Entertainment presented it's Christmas panto on Tuesday night at the Liverpool Empire theatre. Opening to audiences the previous Friday, the action packed panto is scheduled to run until the New Year, ending on Sunday 6th Jan 2019. The 3D spectacular was presented to a full audience of adults and children alike and started promptly at 7pm. Finishing around 9:15 with one interval, the show was packed to the brim with content.

Shirley Ballas as Mother Nature

Strictly come Dancings' chief judge Shirley Ballas made her debut as Mother Nature and she performed the role with phenomenal grace and skill. As expected, there were plenty of opportunities for her to showcase her dancing skills with the Strictly theme as her soundtrack. She was fantastic. Alex James-Hatton played the lead role of Jack and was impeccable. His vocals were impressive as was his collaboration with Clair Gleave (Princess Apricot) as they performed numerous duets throughout the show.

Alex James-Hatton (Jack) & Clair Gleave (Princess Apricot) 

Liverpool's own Daniel Taylor was exceptional in his role as villain Fleshcreep. He is such a multi-faceted actor and he excelled in this role as the villainous character that the audience loved to hate. Kudos to Taylor for delivering yet another role with passion.

The talented Daniel Taylor as Fleshcreep

The regional references are always a great touch in a panto. It makes the content all the more relatable to the audience even though based on fiction. West Kirby, Tranmere Rovers and Hoylake even got a mention.

The tongue twister scene was a particular favourite of mine and the cast are to be commended for their diction and most of all their composure. It was hilarious to hear about Shirley Shaw's sister Sharon who sells sushi in the sushi store. There was little margin for error when expletives were inevitable but the cast held it together (almost). The result was an audience in hysterics at the farcical scene that played out before them. 

Jack Trot & Fleshcreep

The choreography was impressive throughout with David Wood creating some memorable scenes in his role as choreographer. My heart melted when I saw members of the Juvenile blue team perform as sheep and other farmyard animals. They were so adorable and polished in their performances.

Musical Director Nick Pinchbeck was responsible for the upbeat and current score. My favourite number was the duet "Rewrite the Stars" from The Greatest Showman. The vocal compatibility and quality of the harmonies between Hatton and Gleave was highly impressive.

The supporting cast were excellent and the 3D element added to the immersive nature of the second half. I was captivated and jumped with fright on more than one occasion over what was being projected to me via my complementary pair of 3D glasses.

Dame Trot, Simple Simon & Jack

Iain Stuart Robertson was brilliant in his role as Dame Trot, as was John Evans as Simple Simon. Evans was effortless with his witty delivery and created a high level of rapport with the audience from the outset. The synergy between Alex James-Hatton (Jack) and Clair Gleave (Princess Apricot) was a joy to behold. My star of the show would have to be Hatton for his all-round proficiency at playing such a credible lead. 

Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum, don't delay if you wish to catch this giant of a spectacular. If you are looking for fun for all the family over this festive period, this is the show for you. It's  strictly a family affair and it will delight you over the festive season.

Show runs from 14th December 2018- 6th January 2019

Written by Alan McHugh

Directed by Bob Tomson

Tickets can be purchased from Liverpool Empire Theatre Box office here