Jack and the Beanstalk, Dalian Players

This traditionally styled pantomime, written and directed by Andy Franks, worked to the abilities of the cast members. There was an abundance of clever, ballet based, group dance routines including a solo from Lisa Barnes (Lucy) which brought out the best of Sally Upton's choreography.Both the singing and the dancing were slightly let down by the poor sound quality.

The highlight of the show was the visual effects (Rob Harfield and Michael Tosdevin). The growth of the beanstalk was both dramatic and magical allowing Jack to really climb into the sky. The cage in the giant's castle was also a clever touch. Rob Franks, who was an excellent giant and towered over the rest of the cast, scared all the children in the front row with his commanding presence. The stage really came to life through the colourful costumes worn by all, Phil Jordan bagging a few laughs with his comically placed baubles, but Jack's outfit being a little understated.

Mollie Price made an endearing Jack and Michael Tosdevin was stoutly pompous as the greedy mayor . Dan Franks had comic moments as the dim witted sidekick to a fantastically snide Lucius (Martin Franks), who was great at dealing with the audience's boos, and handled his tongue twister of a song excellently.

A prompt was never called upon, even with the youngest cast members.

This was a well rehearsed and professional pantomime, but would have benefitted from more energy in the ensemble numbers.

Lottie King