Jack and the Beanstalk: What A Whopper! – Charing Cross Theatre

For those who think pantomime is merely a children’s festive pastime, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk: What a Whopper!’ gleefully shatters all expectations with its unapologetically adult spin on the classic theatre genre. Written by Jon Bradfield and Martin Hooper and directed by Andrew Beckett, this production isn’t just sprinkled with innuendo, it’s flooded in wickedly clever humour and deliciously naughty smut, which keeps the audience roaring with laughter throughout.

From the moment the curtains rise it is clear that this is not your typical Christmas show. The plot, centered on Jack Trott’s (Keanu Adolphus Johnson) quest for something “truly giant”. Jack is poor, gay, and very horny, living 10 miles from the nearest Grindr user in the quaint Yorkshire Village of Upper Bottom, a playful backdrop for the real star: the unrelenting cascade of jokes, bawdy, but incredibly clever songs, and gloriously camp performances. Every glittery moment brims with creativity and camp mischief, turning the familiar children’s fairytale into a rollicking adventure that feels both mischievous and fresh.

A seasoned panto veteran, Matthew Baldwin shines brightly as ‘Dame Dolly Trott’, delivering a performance that is equal parts outrageous and endearing. Dolly is no ordinary panto dame, and Baldwin imbues her with a biting wit and larger-than-life charisma, which anchors the entire production. Whether lamenting her soap opera downfall or throwing herself into riotous musical numbers, Baldwin’s Dolly is an absolute triumph, commanding attention with every fabulous costume change and razor-sharp punchline.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Jordan Stamatiadis as the villainous and yet hilarious Lady Fleshcreep, and Chris Lane as Dale, the flamboyantly helpful fairy. Stamatiadis chews the scenery with relish, portraying a villain so camp and devious that every entrance is a delight. Meanwhile, Lane brings a sparkling charm to Dale, delivering pithy asides and an infectious energy that keeps the pace electric. Laura Anna-Mead’s Simple Simone offers a perfect blend of physical, slapstick comedy and innocence, ensuring the laughs keep coming.

Visually, the show dazzles thanks to David Shields’ inventive set design, which is compact, but moves effortlessly from dilapidated farmyard to towering beanstalk in the sky. His attention to detail creates a world that feels simultaneously magical and delightfully over-the-top. The delicious costumes, designed by Robert Draper and Sandy Lloyd, are a feast of sequins, glitter, and exaggerated silhouettes, perfectly complementing the campy energy of the production.

Musically, Jon Bradfield’s original songs hit the mark, with tongue-in-cheek lyrics and catchy melodies that feel tailor-made for this audacious show. The numbers not only capture the humour of the narrative but also give the cast a chance to shine in vibrant performances. Carole Todd’s choreography ensures these moments are visually engaging, with ensemble numbers that feel polished yet playful.

What truly sets ‘Jack and the Beanstalk: What a Whopper!’ apart, though, is its unapologetic celebration of queer humour and boundary-pushing fun. While traditional pantomimes may rely on subtle innuendo, this production takes it further, revelling in its filthy jokes and celebratory camp. It is not just shock for shock’s sake, there’s a cleverness to the humour that ensures every gasp is followed by genuine belly laughter.

This is adult pantomime at its finest: bold, brilliant, rude, and utterly hilarious. Whether you are a longtime fan of this team’s work or a first-time attendee, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk: What a Whopper!’ delivers a night of pure joy that is as wild as it is memorable. It runs until 11th January 2025 at the Charing Cross Theatre, London. Tickets can be purchased here: https://charingcrosstheatre.co.uk/theatre/jack-and-the-beanstalk

Reviewer: Alan Stuart Malin

Reviewed: 28^th November 2024

North West End UK Rating: