NODA Review

Jack and The Beanstalk by Matthew Siveter

Retford Musical Theatre Company

11th December 2021

Artistic Director                Matthew Siveter

Associate Director           Claire Fearn

NODA                                  Jules Jones

A matinee performance at Retford Little Theatre, a filthy afternoon weatherwise, but a colourful, fun filled, pantomime spectacular cheer me up no-end at Retford Little Theatre.  A wonderful afternoon’s entertainment, a full house, who could have asked for more.

I received a warm welcome in Retford, with a band playing Christmas songs in the café area. An excited crowd of children and adults all looking forward to the show.  Matthew Siveter’s pantomime was just about as colourful and funny as they come.  Jamie Savage as the Dame played the audience with ease, engaging with children and adults alike.  Clever, bright costumes and make-up were exactly right for his character and everyone felt at ease and joined in the usual jokes and banter.

Fleshcreep the dastardly baddy, played with expertise by Ruth Colclough, relished in the reaction she received from the audience and played the fiend masterfully.  I felt all the leading roles were strong and with good voices, excellent casting all round.  I’d like to commend Demi Roughton, who played Silly Billy with utter confidence and excellent chemistry between her and the other characters on stage.

Costumes, sound, lighting, and set all combined to bring the story to life, and what a luxury to have a live band.  I felt from where I sat the balance wasn’t perfect, I couldn’t always hear the voices during the songs, but a minor issue as the performance was always strong.  Jack and Jill (Josh Parker and Annie Robinson) were the love interest in this story, and they were fantastic.  The Villagers and School Kids were all engaging, and I really enjoyed the dance numbers.  Choreography by Dawn Denman, Stacey Hesson, and Molly Staples was excellent, and everyone smiled and sang their way through a polished production.  I loved the ballet interlude, what talented young people you have in the company.

Overall, a bright, colourful, Christmassy show. A warm welcome and a full house.  It was lovely to meet you all and I look forward to future productions at Retford Little Theatre.