It’s now as much of a modern festive tradition (on the scene anyway) as those red cups from that semen-laden coffee joint, or that heart-wrenching TV commercial with the whimsical storyline and endearing animals (which is supposed to make us dash out and buy their home-ware). Now in it’s eighth year, the RVT panto returns with a very modern twist on the story of Jack and The Beanstalk, written by Gareth Joyner.
The cast of five may seem small by panto standards, however this show is a perfect example of quality over quantity. They all excel in their respective roles and compliment each other beautifully, meaning there’s never a dull moment, even when Myra DuBois fluffs her lines. In fact, those are the parts we all secretly love, aren’t they? You can tell she does.
Harry Clayton-Wright (pictured) who plays the fame-hungry, social media mad Jack resembles a scantily-clad Zebedee on speed. “Who needs friends when you have LIKES.” A cheeky chappie, who is not afraid to display that cheek (you’ve been warned). His boundless energy and enthusiasm juxtaposes Dame Trott’s (Myra) calmness and disdain for the world around her, just as it should, and their onstage chemistry shines throughout.
The storyline is, as you’d expect, peppered with plenty of the traditional panto fayre, as well as lashings of filth and innuendo. (Who doesn’t love innuendo? I personally couldn’t go a day without it.) For the more discerning panto-goer there’s an added injection of celebrity scandal, dogging and gender stereotyping. The latter is displayed simply, but is so clever in its simplicity – the highlight of the show.
As well as slick dialogue and high quality costumes, the music chosen for the show will appeal to most: country, musical theatre, traditional and rock kept the audience fully engaged. There’s even a saxophone solo. The finale, especially for me as a super fan of this particular group, was SPOT ON!
Jack! Sissy That Stalk gets the balance of traditional, adult and socio-cultural just right. A must see panto this consumer-crazy season, even if leading lady Myra DuBois described it as ‘Just a panto. In a pub. On a roundabout.’ She should be in marketing, that one.
• Jack! Sissy That Stalk
• Royal Vauxhall Tavern, 372 Kennington Lane, Vauxhall, SE11
• 3rd December–8th January, 8pm
• Tickets: £12, bit.ly/QXjack
