Martock's Jack and the Beanstalk

Martock Players and Pantomime Society present

Jack and the Beanstalk

I have to confess Jack and the Beanstalk is my all time favourite pantomime. I love its story and am always intrigued as to how the beanstalk will grow and how the giant makes his appearance.

It was no wonder then, that I was looking forward to driving across to Martock where Martock Players and Pantomime Society are presenting this very panto.

A great choice of script written by Damian Trasler, David Lovesy and Steve Clark meant this would be a very funny all round script with plenty of topical one-liners and comedy. Your dedicated team certainly brought this production to life and what a fun packed afternoon we all had.

John Perry was once again in the hot seat as director and also taking on the role of MD.

On entering a lovely warm hall it was pleasing to hear easy listening music playing the background. It was ‘Raindrops keep falling on my head’. How appropriate was that! I was immediately drawn to your set design. It was totally stunning not only on stage but incorporating one entire side of the hall as well. I therefore must congratulate Jo and Sarah on such a professional standard. There was so much attention to detail to take in and your artistic flair gave this show a real nostalgic feel.

This was ‘good old’ traditional pantomime at its best with loyal performers giving one hundred per cent to their community. We were never quite sure where the next performer would make their entrance, on stage, off stage, rear of the hall or down the stairs but it flowed and everything knitted into place.

Comedy was in abundance especially from Dozy Den, Dame Trott, The King and Prime Minster. Great rapport between you all. I thought the arrival of the King was very funny having to go back for a second take. In particular I loved the auction scene. The take on David Dickinson was very funny indeed. Maybe the spider moving up and down may have added a little more visual comedy and shouting from the audience.

By contrast we had Poison Ivy receiving many boos and Giant Blunderbore (scaled down a tad) giving a commanding performance.

The loveable Fairy Beansprout always appeared on cue and worked well against that evil Witch.

The Giant’s Housekeeper, Buttercup’s lead and the adorable Buttercup herself played their parts with confidence and were a joy to watch and a joy to listen to during the chorus numbers. 

I am certain a lot of time and effort had gone in to make this village pantomime the success it was.

I enjoyed my afternoon immensely as did your audience. It’s a big ‘Fums up’ from me!

Nigel Ford

Moderator