Dundee Rep has once again sprinkled its unique brand of theatrical magic on the festive season with a wildly inventive and uproariously funny production of Jack and the Beanstalk. Running until 4 January 2025, this is not your grandmother's pantomime, but a sharp, contemporary, and brilliantly staged spectacle that firmly plants one foot in tradition and the other firmly in the present day.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Tale
Directed with verve and imagination, this production takes the familiar story of Jack, his mother, and the legendary beanstalk and infuses it with a distinctly modern sensibility. The creative team, led by director Andrew Panton and writer Scott Gilmour, has crafted a script that is packed with local Dundee humour, witty pop-culture references, and a surprising amount of heart. The classic panto beats are all present—audience participation, booing the villain, shouting "he's behind you!"—but they feel freshly minted and genuinely engaging.
The set and costume design are nothing short of spectacular, transforming the Rep stage into a vibrant world that moves seamlessly from a struggling Scottish croft to the dizzying heights of the giant's castle in the clouds. The use of innovative staging and clever projections makes the growth of the iconic beanstalk a moment of genuine theatrical wonder, captivating both young children and adults alike.
Standout Performances and Hilarious Twists
The cast is uniformly excellent, delivering energy and commitment from start to finish. Martin Quinn shines as the endearing and slightly hapless hero, Jack, bringing a relatable charm to the role. The true scene-stealer, as tradition often dictates, is the dame, played with outrageous gusto and impeccable comic timing. The script wisely gives this character a central role, driving much of the plot and the laughter with a succession of increasingly absurd and fabulous costumes.
The villainous giant, or rather his henchman, is portrayed with a delicious blend of menace and silliness, ensuring the boos from the audience are loud and heartfelt. A particular highlight is the show's inventive approach to the giant himself, using clever design and sound to create a truly imposing presence without ever losing the essential panto spirit. The ensemble supports the leads with boundless energy, whether in elaborate musical numbers or chaotic slapstick sequences.
Why This Panto is a Must-See
What sets this Dundee Rep pantomime apart is its intelligent balance of humour for all ages. The jokes for the adults are smart and topical without being exclusionary, while the physical comedy and vibrant spectacle keep the youngest audience members utterly enthralled. The production also incorporates several original songs that are catchy and well-integrated into the story, moving beyond simple filler to enhance character and plot.
This Jack and the Beanstalk is more than just a festive diversion; it is a testament to the vitality and creativity of modern Scottish theatre. It respects the rich traditions of the pantomime art form while confidently reimagining it for a contemporary audience. The result is a show that feels both warmly familiar and excitingly new.
For families seeking a memorable Christmas outing or theatre lovers looking for a production with genuine wit and polish, Dundee Rep's latest offering is an unmissable highlight of the cultural calendar. It delivers laughter, spectacle, and a hearty dose of seasonal cheer, proving that the magic of a well-told story, and a few magic beans, is truly timeless.
