NODA North West Magazine

JACK & THE BEANSTALK

Macclesfield Majestic Theatre Group

Producer: Shirley Davies
Musical Director: Heather Hayes-Wilson
Choreographer: Carolyn Farrish-Mayer

Engendering my thoughts and fighting my way through eminent dictionaires for a meaningful definition of pantomime proved to be, not only enlightening but also confusing. This production was certainly musical, packed with good ensembles and solos. An interesting inclusion was a backing group, absolutely in character, cleverly singing the 'thoughts' of principal cast, also acting as 'link' continuity between scenes and providing some of the best singing in the production. The sets and special effects were very effective and visually attractive, thanks to all the talented technical staff and Jenny Gilder's initiation as stage-manager.

The costumes were again superb, not a word I use lightly. The team spend most of the year making them and have the ability to turn the most mundane into something, not only special but accurate. The sporadic appearances of Tarquin Spangle as an impressive Giant could hardly be classified as 'The Baddie'.

Footing the bill was Tom Brown, as the upwardly mobile Squire, father of Sally, attractive principal girl, Tessa Hart, while Kyly Vernon was a lovely Lilac Fairy. Buttercup the Cow was to be commended, particularly her four tappin feet called Linda Chuter and Helen Jones. Collette Desborough was Jack, he of the Beanstalk, and what a good principal boy she was, presenting just the right attitude and singing well to boot. As to the specific conventions from the afore-mentioned dictionary - especially farcical?

The society has been blessed with an excellent Dame, read last year's report, in Dave McGuiness. Over the last couple of years he has found soul-mates in young Steven Helliwell, 'young daft son' and Claire Mannion-Brown, the butt of everyone's jokes, but oh, how she can take them. As Widow Archie and Nellie respectively, this hapless trio have developed an extraordinary rapport, honed their comedy and polished it and ultimately carried many difficult scenes. Cameraderie, team spirit, joi-de-vivre, call it what you will, Macclesfield M.T.G embodies this.

It's what amateur theatre is all about, love of the subject and aiming for excellence and ultimately delighting an audience.

 

See also Newspaper Review

 

 

 

Next Show

"Musical Variety Concert"
.............
9th to 12th May 2012