Audiences are in for a magical treat this season as the curtains rise on a brand-new musical panto Jack and the Beanstalk packed with chart-topping songs, hilarious comedy, outrageous characters, and plenty of audience participation.
The crew behind the Enniscorthy Panto are delighted to deliver their own version of the classic fairytale this coming December.
Set in the colourful world of Pantoland, Jack and the Beanstalk follows the adventures of Dame Dolly Dumpling and her chaotic family as they struggle to make ends meet while preparing for the Princess’s grand coronation party.
But when Jack trades the beloved family cow, Milky White, for a handful of mysterious magic beans, things quickly spiral into a wild adventure involving giant beanstalks, wicked witches, talking cows, royal kidnappings, and a giant with a serious grudge.
According to writer and director Geaóid McCauley, the show combines the classic charm of traditional pantomime with modern pop hits and laugh-out-loud comedy for audiences of all ages.
The exciting production will also be featuring some much-loved and popular songs inspired by artists including Dolly Parton, Britney Spears, Madonna, Take That, the Spice Girls, One Direction, and many more.
At the heart of the story of Jack and the Beanstalk is Dame Dolly Dumpling, played by Mr McCauley, the larger-than-life panto dame whose quick wit and endless one-liners keep the audience entertained throughout.
Alongside her are Jack, played by Olena Cheberya, the lovable dreamer hoping to change his family’s fortunes; twins Maisie and Molly, played by duo Hollie and Millie Cloke), who discover courage and confidence beneath their obsession with fashion and parties.
A special addition is Milky White, played expertly by Mary Kehoe, the scene-stealing cow whose endless stream of cow jokes threatens to ‘milk’ every laugh possible from the audience.
The villain of the piece comes in the form of the Wicked Witch, played by Astra McCauley, whose evil plan to unleash darkness over Pantoland is constantly interrupted by her hopeless henchmen, Bish and Bosh, played by Chris Larkin and David Medcalf.
Add in a brave Good Fairy, Thérese Canavan Bolger, a kidnapped Princess, Veronica Tuz, and a giant stomping his way toward destruction, and audiences can expect a thrilling finale where teamwork, friendship, and plenty of audience singing save the day.
Musical Director is Michaela White, while choreographer is Jonny Smithand with nearly forty local young people in the chorus, the show is set to make a big impression.
The show is designed to bring families together for an unforgettable theatre experience filled with music, dancing, comedy, and traditional panto fun,” Mr McCauley added.
“This panto has everything audiences love. Big songs, silly jokes, larger-than-life characters, and a story full of heart. It’s a celebration of family, friendship, and community spirit.”
Jack and the Beanstalk will be staged in Astro Active Centre, Bellefield Wednesday, December 2, Thursday, December 3 and Saturday, December 5 at 7.30 p.m., with matinees on Saturday, December 5 and Sunday, December 6.
Tickets can be booked online at the Gr8events website.