Review | Jack and the Beanstalk (Mow Cop Players)

Mow Cop Players’ production of Jack and the Beanstalk was an absolute joy from start to finish!

A vibrant, funny, and heart-warming show brought to life by an incredibly talented local cast. From the moment the lights went up, the energy on stage was infectious, and the audience was swept into a world of magic, laughter, and community spirit.

One of the standout performances came from Maizy, who lit up the stage with her fantastic sass and confidence as she portrayed Jack's younger sister, Jill. Maizy was clearly giving everything she had and more on stage during every musical and dance number!

The lead in a pantomime needs someone who can hold their own on whether it's singing, dancing, acting or all three and with Phebe as Jack, Mow Cop Players have the perfect lead in this year's Panto - I heard someone say "Wow, she's BRILLIANT!" during her first number and I'd have to agree and it very much continued throughout. 

It's really hard when you're reviewing a production like this not to wax lyrical about all of the cast, their fantastic ensemble were the perfect accompaniment to the named cast members, the pantomime fairies were incredible, Cook and Major were the comedy duo I didn't know I needed in my life (just don't ask them to make a pie!) and crowd favourite Leigh Colclough played Betty the Panto Dame to perfection. 

Our very own Kelly Smith (Sunday's 12-2) features in this production, it is the first time I've seen 'our Kel' on stage and I'd never say this directly too her because she knows I don't do niceities, she was brilliant and I thought her natural comedic timing alongside Abi got some well deserved big laughs from the audience in the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery - on a side note, i've never seen Kelly as happy as she was singing a FIVE medley!  

I do have to mention the absolute GENIUS use of video for this production; it was used really effectively and at just the right time to allow the story to move on. 

What makes this production even more special is the ethos behind it. Theatre companies like Mow Cop Players play a vital role in the community, providing opportunities for performers of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels to shine. In a world where access to the arts can often feel limited or exclusive, Mow Cop Players stands as a shining example of what happens when creativity, inclusivity, and local passion come together. Their commitment to nurturing talent not only enriches the lives of those on stage but also strengthens the cultural heartbeat of the entire area.

Brimming with humour, music, personality, and heart, Jack and the Beanstalk was a reminder of how powerful and uplifting community theatre can be. Mow Cop Players have delivered yet another gem, and I can’t wait to see Wizard of Oz next year (but please don't get me up for the community song!)