The Stage

Jack and the Beanstalk

Published Monday 10 December 2007 at 11:35 by Peter Cargill

Dundee’s festive offering this year leans more towards panto style than in previous years. From the pen of ensemble member Robert Paterson, it certainly could not be described as lavish, but the seven-strong cast under the direction of James Brining bring together two hours of sheer enjoyment to suit all ages.

The beauty of the ensemble system for regular patrons is the chance to see their favourites in such diverse roles - from Peer Gynt to panto within weeks.

It was a piece of inspired casting to hand John Buick the role of Jack’s mum Alice - his sense of comic timing is impeccable and how the youngsters loved him. At the other end of the popularity scale, Keith Fleming revelled in the role of the very ‘bad’ Rufus Dogsbottom, his Michael Jackson-esque portrayal encouraging boos and laughter in equal measure.

Kevin Lennon (Jack) and the company’s apprentice member Hannah Donaldson (Sally), in her debut on the Dundee stage, exuded cheerfulness and Emily Winter was positively manic as Lady Charlotte before donning the goose’s costume in the giant’s lair.

No time to polish your ego in this ensemble - award-winning actress Ann Louise Ross was the front end in the cow costume which she shared with Martin McCormack. He was later the giant and she his servant.

Neil Warmington’s designs came to the fore at the top of the beanstalk with outsized furniture and a front door of illusionary proportions.

Yann Seznec and Steve Kettley provided incidental music composed by John Harris on a plethora of instruments.

If success can be measured by audience reaction, then Jack’s beanstalk will grow and grow.

Search Amazon for Jack and the Beanstalk items Search for tickets at Ticketmaster