The Lyric Hammersmith has unleashed a vibrant new interpretation of the classic pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk that turns tradition on its head while delivering festive fun for all ages.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Tale
Directed by Nicholai La Barrie, this production transports the familiar story to a school in Hammersmith, completely reimagining the traditional narrative. Instead of a literal giant, audiences encounter a colossal computer system hidden in the sky, designed to erase children's imaginations. The villainous headmaster Fleshcreep, played with delicious menace by John Partridge in a salami-printed suit, masterminds this sinister scheme against shy Jack and his schoolfriends.
The production runs at Lyric Hammersmith until 4 January, offering Londoners a fresh pantomime experience that breaks from convention while maintaining the genre's signature energy and audience engagement.
Standout Performances and Sparkling Production
Jade Hackett delivers what might be the production's crowning achievement as the Fairy Godfather, combining wizardry with wisdom in what one critic described as "one of the most commanding turns I've ever seen on a panto stage." Her character takes centre stage, providing both magical intervention and charismatic leadership.
The romantic subplot between Momma Trott (Sam Harrison) and the Fairy Godfather adds fiery chemistry to the production, with the pair drawn together magnetically whenever they share the stage. Joey James portrays Jack as a nervous character who finds comfort in a sock puppet, while Sienna Widd brings brilliant sass to the role of his sister Jill, who refuses to be intimidated by Fleshcreep's threats.
Kayla Lomas-Kirton's choreography sends the stage into a disco ball frenzy, perfectly complementing the pop hits that come thick and fast throughout the performance. The production leans fully into sparkle and spectacle, creating an immersive visual experience.
Departure from Traditional Panto Elements
This version notably steps away from several pantomime conventions that regular audiences might expect. The political jokes that have characterised previous Lyric pantomimes are largely absent, with only a single well-executed reference to the Coldplay CCTV cheating saga providing topical humour.
Some traditionalists might find themselves longing for more familiar elements, but the production's energy and innovation generally win over the audience. As one reviewer noted, "it would take a real Scrooge not to be taken in by all the festivity."
John Partridge's performance as Fleshcreep generates genuine fear among audience members, creating that perfect balance of menace and fun that defines successful pantomime villainy. Even the classic "fee-fi-fo" chant takes on new life in this context.
The beanstalk itself receives a creative reinterpretation as being constructed from socks, through which Jack and his mother must climb to rescue Jill from the giant's kingdom. The production consistently finds inventive ways to refresh familiar story beats while maintaining the essential spirit of the original tale.
