Jack and His Giant Stalk

Jack and His Giant Stalk at Brick Lane Music Hall is an utter triumph. I can only describe it as a joyous, riotous success from start to finish. Truly phenomenal work from both the cast and the creative team, delivering a production that reminds you exactly why pantomime, when done right, is unbeatable.

Lucy Hayes’ direction goes all in, packing every moment with either laugh out loud comedy or genuinely beautiful storytelling. There isn’t a wasted beat. Her script, is bouncy, clever and full of heart, allowing each character to leap vividly off the stage while keeping the pace fizzing along. It’s playful without ever being lazy, and sharp without losing warmth.

We are introduced to the Spirit of the Beans, Jack Pallister, who carries himself with the gleeful energy of a young Julian Clary, paired with a fantastic musical theatre vocal. His rendition of the opening number Anything Is Possible sets the tone perfectly, he is confident, charismatic and bursting with joy. Pallister also deserves praise for his lyrics throughout the show, tongue in cheek, knowingly cheeky but never crass.  

Jack Trott, the title role, is played with gusto by Josh Benson. A comedian through and through, Benson allows his natural comedy to shine while expertly handling the ‘straight’ title role which is no easy task in a pantomime world full of larger than life characters. 

Samantha McNeil’s Jill is an absolute delight. She creates a wonderfully fresh, confident character with some of the show’s most memorable moments and in many ways manages to steal the show. Lucy Reed as Daisy the Cow manages to become the major heart and anchor of the show. Reed showcases her ability to sing, dance and act her socks off, with clear echoes of Barbara Windsor paired with phenomenal vocals, a winning combination that has the audience eating out of her hand.

The villains are a particular highlight. Hayley-Jo Whitney’s Ophelia Loose bottom (and what a pun) is a gloriously wicked creation, relishing every moment of villainy. Her performance of Don’t Stop Me Now is a standout, showcasing an amazing vocal and commanding the stage with ease. Charlotte Fage delivers strongly as Poison Ivy, bringing menace, polish, and a great vocal performance that perfectly complements the double villain dynamic.