Well, it’s here again (oh yes it is!), one of the most important dates in Stoke- on-Trent’s calendar. Its panto time! Written by Alan Mc Hugh, this year it is ‘Jack and The Beanstalk’ being performed at The Regent Theatre and perhaps more importantly, it is the return of Stokes very own and very much loved, Jonny Wilkes.
Directed by Wilkes and Owen, both who also perform in the production, most must be familiar with this popular story of Jack who is asked to sell Daisy the cow at Market and returns with a bag of beans. The beans grow into a colossal beanstalk that Jack must climb to get to the top and save the day.
Wilkes plays the part of Jack, a (very) simple soul who sells the families beloved cow ‘Daisy’ at the market (Leek Market that is). Wilkes is a master at treading the fine line between adult humour and humour that makes the children giggle in equal amounts. His knowing nod and a wink at some subtle jokes and constantly connecting with the audience, certainly makes them feel they are ‘in on the joke’. As a legitimate ‘Stokie’ himself he can certainly get away with the ‘tongue in cheek’ insults he delivers effortlessly related to living in the area.
This year Noel Sullivan, of the pop group ‘Hear Say’ fame, joins Wilkes as ‘Fleshcreep’. With a credible musical theatre background, Sullivans performance was camp, evil and devilishly flamboyant. He appeared to be having a wonderful time on stage with Wilkes and co. Giggling on stage himself and clearly loving being ‘the baddy,’ and has embraced the panto world fully. With his phenomenal vocals he was a standout performer on the night.
Michelle Andrews played the part of ‘Princess Jill’. With numerous theatre and TV credits to her name she performed and sang with ease, her Geordie accent standing out on stage. Andrews is a confident performer and certainly embraced the panto world.
Hollyoaks and Torchwood star, amongst many other TV and theatre credits, Kai Owen returned to the panto as ‘Farmer Trot’. Becoming a regular at this panto, he clearly loves performing and directing with Wilkes and their friendship and chemistry was evident to watch. Owen is a natural talent and always engages so well with the audience.
Rio Maye performed the part of ‘The Spirit of the Beans’. As a recent graduate from Wilkes Academy of Performing Arts, it’s clear she has a bright future. With much stage presence she will surely appear in many productions in the future.
Aaron Nice (Musical Director) and the orchestra must be applauded, especially for all the sound effects to various aspects of the show where timing was essential-such as when the maracas made a rattle when shook by Flesh but did not make a sound when Jack shook them.
Although extremely popular each year it is safe to say that the panto at The Regent never sits on its laurels, which it most certainly could. Audience participation (and even getting soaked) seems to be a given now but each year there is always something new and refreshing on stage. The 3D effect of the Giant in his castle was a great add on this year. With 3D specs on, the audience could enter the castle with Jack. Life like spiders and flying bats, amongst other nasties, leapt off the stage into the audience to screams of delight and horror.
The panto at the Regent is an absolute must for all but in particular for any ‘Stokie’ who wants to embrace all the goodness of the city of Stoke- on -Trent. It is a celebration of local community and also current culture that makes this pantomime almost bespoke. No one will be disappointed and this one in particular, was a lot of Fi Fi Fo Fun!!
Jack and the Beanstalk is on until Sunday 7th January and tickets are still available from The Regent Theatre box office or via www.atgtickets.com
Reviewer: Angela Kelly
Reviewed: 15th December 2023
North West End UK Rating: