Giant-sized laughs at Northcott panto

Jack and the Beanstalk - REVIEW

It’s that time of year again. Oh no it isn’t! Oh yes, it is! Panto season is here - the best way to warm up to Christmas since central heating or, in Dame Trott’s case, a well-timed hot flush. And this year, Exeter Northcott Theatre teams up with the ever-inventive Le Navet Bete to deliver a fresh and fabulously silly take on Jack and the Beanstalk.

With a young family in tow, I’ve seen my fair share of pantomimes, and I’m forever impressed by how production companies manage to reinvent a story told more times than you can shout “He’s behind you!”, while still making it feel original. Le Navet Bete’s version doesn’t just tick that box - it cartwheels straight over it.

Matt Freeman’s Dame Trott leads the fun with irresistible charm and brilliant one-liners, while Al Dunn brings boundless energy and earnest enthusiasm to Jack. Jodie Micciche’s Jill is warm, witty, and more than capable of keeping Jack in line, and Molly Cheesley’s Bella the Cow is a four-legged superstar with impeccable comic timing. Nick Bunt’s Silly Billy does exactly what’s advertised on the tin - delivering gloriously daft humour that had children and adults alike howling. And every good panto needs a villain - Aaron Dart’s wonderfully sinister Fleshcreep is deliciously boo-worthy, leaning into the role with wicked glee.

The musical numbers are a riot, bouncing from Proud Mary to Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, with a detour through Bruno Mars & Rosé’s APT, as well as the gloriously bizarre Steve’s Lava Chicken. And when Golden by KPop Demon Hunters kicks in, you’ll be up and dancing!

Add in some cheeky product placement from local businesses (all in good fun), impressive special effects, and just the right amount of panto chaos, and you’ve got a show that sparkles from start to finish. The traditional tale of magic beans, giant adventures, and dreams of a better future is told with such warmth and inventiveness that it feels brand new.

If you want festive fun, belly laughs, and a memorable family night out, this beanstalk is well worth climbing. Jack and the Beanstalk runs at Exeter Northcott Theatre until Sunday 4 January. Don’t miss it!