REVIEW: Jack And The Beanstalk - Gladstone Theatre

The Gladstone Theatre was alive with pantomime magic last Friday. Jack and the Beanstalk a familiar story, yes but under the pen of Fortina Stone and the direction of Laura Newnes, this production finds fresh footing with a lively and visually cohesive interpretation.

Ellie Clayton delivers a confident bold, engaging and vocally assured Jill while Lewis Prior’s Jack brings an easy, likeable charm to the title role. At times, the narrative pacing leans heavily on the comedic beats, but the central performances keep the story moving with warmth and clarity.

Comic relief lands well throughout, particularly with Michael Chapman being the heart of hilarity as Dame Trott; warm, witty and wonderfully engaging with Michael Allen Bailey as Silly Scott, whose timing is sharp without becoming overplayed. Dame Trott is a highlight balancing humour with heart, and maintaining strong rapport with the audience and  costumes that delight with every change.

Credit Ian Fairbrother Photography

Neil McDonald’s Squire Pegg added that classic panto authority, grounding the chaos with just the right amount of gravitas.

Credit: Ian Fairbrother Photography

.Justine Langford’s Fairy Fertile - the guardian of all things green adds a touch of whimsy and grace, her presence tying beautifully into the show’s lush green aesthetic. That visual thread runs throughout the production from the towering beanstalk to the Giant’s striking costume creating a cohesive and enchanting world of  Cloud Land that feels both playful and immersive.

Justine Langford as Fairy Fertile. Photo credit: Ian Fairbrother Photography

The Dastardly Fleshcreep. Photo Credit: Ian Fairbrother Photography

Meanwhile, Darren John Langford’s Fleshcreep is a standout, oozing delicious menace while maintaining a magnetic charm that keeps the audience hooked. His playful taunt, “Do you love me yet?” is met with gleeful boos each time, a testament to his rapport with the crowd. I've seen him in many pantomimes and he never disappoints. His wit and stylish delivery enamours him to his audience each and every time.

Photo Credit: Ian Fairbrother Photography

The balance of humour is pitch-perfect. The adult jokes never tip too far, remaining playful rather than risqué, while the younger audience is kept fully engaged. Even the Giant voiced with commanding presence strikes that careful balance between thrilling and just the right amount of scary. Apparently, he is vegan and kind. The compassion was dialled all the way up that's for sure.

I really enjoyed the performance. This is pantomime at its best: a joyous romp packed with laughter, spectacle and heart. A show that winks at the adults, delights the children, and reminds us all why this tradition continues to endure.

This is a polished, engaging pantomime that knows its audience and delivers exactly what is expected; laughter, spectacle and a sense of shared joy.

A confident production that honours tradition while adding just enough of its own flavour.

In short: pure family fun, done right.

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