With the festive season upon us, there’s nothing quite like a fun-filled panto to really get us into the Christmas spirit - and Jack and the Beanstalk at New Wimbledon Theatre doesn’t disappoint.

It ticks all the boxes; top tier vocal talent from X-Factor winner Alexandra Burke, tongue in cheek gags from drag icon Ceri Dupree and a huge dose of silliness is brought to the stage by Joe Pasquale - whose character is aptly named Silly Simon. The two-hour show whizzes by, filled to the brim with musical numbers, audience participation (“Oh no there isn’t! Oh yes there is!”) and a cast who clearly are enjoying every minute of festive fun.

Burke shines as the baddie of the piece, Mrs Blunderbore, who is married to The Giant and the one who tricks Jack into selling his prize cow for the bag of magic beans - much to his mother Dame Trot’s (Ceri Dupree) dismay. Dupree’s extravagant costume changes become a running joke throughout the show and is every bit a traditional panto dame we’ve come to know and love. There’s a lot happening on stage but Jack (Benjamin Yates) and Jill (Natalie Chua) keep the plotline intact amidst the chaos with the help of Ria Jones whose stage presence is both warm and charming.

In typical panto fashion, there’s plenty to laugh at and Pasquale’s humour, in particular, delights a crowd of all ages. He uses physical comedy and quick wit to keep us on our toes and the way he playfully interacts with the rest of the cast and audience is a joyous highlight of the show. The script is punchy and fantastically brought to life by the cast’s comedic timing and vibrant energy - blending lighthearted family fun with a few cheeky jokes just for the adults in the audience. There’s a great sense of comradery and chemistry between the cast which is clearly visible on stage. During a hilarious ‘12 Days of Christmas’ routine, the whole cast shine and have the audience hooked throughout. Without giving too much away, it’s worth seeing the show simply just for this!

There’s plenty of catchy songs to be clapped along to and lots of slapstick moments to talk about on the way home. With an impressive set design, high production value and a skilfully choreographed number involving dancing chickens, the show delivers a fun twist on a classic tale which will leave audiences grinning from ear to ear as they leave the theatre.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Chess Hayden

Jack and the Beanstalk plays at New Wimbledon Theatre until 5 January 2025, with tickets available here.