Expert Review: A Charming Family Pantomime In An Intimate Setting

4.3
★★★★☆

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Jack and the Beanstalk at the King's Head Theatre offers a delightfully intimate take on the classic pantomime. With only 110 seats, every member of the audience feels part of Jack's magical adventure. The production combines traditional pantomime elements with the unique atmosphere of London's first pub theatre, creating a cozy, family-friendly experience that captures the true spirit of Christmas theatre.

What Makes It Special

  • Intimate Setting: The small venue creates exceptional audience interaction and makes every child feel part of the action.
  • Traditional Pantomime: All the classic elements - "He's behind you!", audience participation, and festive songs.
  • Family Atmosphere: The pub theatre setting creates a warm, community feel perfect for families celebrating together.
  • Accessible Magic: Professional staging and effects scaled perfectly for the intimate space without losing any of the wonder.

Perfect For

Families with children of all ages, grandparents and grandchildren, anyone seeking traditional Christmas pantomime in a unique setting, and theatre lovers who appreciate intimate, community-based productions. Ideal for creating special Christmas memories.

Everything You Need to Know

The Classic Tale

Jack and the Beanstalk tells the beloved story of a poor boy who trades his family's cow for magic beans. When the beans grow into an enormous beanstalk reaching to the clouds, Jack climbs up to discover a giant's castle filled with treasure and adventure.

The Characters

  • Jack: Our brave young hero who dreams of adventure and helping his family
  • Dame Trott (Jack's Mother): A pantomime dame full of wisdom, humor, and love for her son
  • The Giant: The fearsome but ultimately defeated villain of the piece - "Fee Fi Fo Fum!"
  • Princess Jill: The brave princess who becomes Jack's companion in adventure
  • Fleshcreep: The giant's evil henchman who provides pantomime villainy
  • Simple Simon: Jack's loyal friend who provides comedy and audience interaction

The Adventure

The story follows Jack's journey from poverty to prosperity as he climbs the magical beanstalk, outwits the giant, rescues the princess, and saves the day. It's a tale of courage, cleverness, and the magic that can happen when you believe in yourself.

The Magic

The production features magical transformations, the enormous beanstalk, the giant's castle in the clouds, and all the spectacular elements that make pantomime special - scaled perfectly for the intimate theatre setting.

Traditional Pantomime Elements

Audience Participation

  • "He's Behind You!": The classic pantomime moment when the audience warns the heroes
  • "Oh Yes It Is/Oh No It Isn't": Traditional pantomime arguments with the audience
  • Booing the Villain: Everyone gets to boo Fleshcreep and the Giant
  • Cheering the Heroes: Supporting Jack and Princess Jill on their adventure
  • Singalong Songs: Festive songs that get the whole audience joining in

Pantomime Comedy

  • Dame Trott: Traditional pantomime dame with outrageous costumes and maternal humor
  • Slapstick Comedy: Physical comedy and mishaps that delight children
  • Topical Jokes: Contemporary references that entertain the adults
  • Running Gags: Repeated jokes that build throughout the show

Musical Numbers

  • Opening Number: Introduction to our characters and their world
  • Jack's Song: Our hero's dreams and aspirations
  • Dame's Comedy Song: Mother Trott's hilarious musical moment
  • Villain's Song: Fleshcreep's dastardly plans revealed in song
  • Love Duet: Jack and Princess Jill's romantic moment
  • Finale: Everyone joins together for a rousing happy ending

Intimate Theatre Magic

The King's Head Theatre's 110-seat capacity means children can get close to the action, actors can interact directly with audience members, and every laugh and gasp is shared by the whole community.

Practical Information

Christmas Season Showtimes

  • December weekends: Saturday 2:00pm & 6:00pm, Sunday 2:00pm
  • Christmas week: Daily performances at 2:00pm and 6:00pm
  • New Year week: Selected performances - check schedule
  • School holidays: Additional matinee performances

Getting There

  • Underground: Angel (8 mins walk) or Highbury & Islington (12 mins walk)
  • Buses: Multiple routes along Upper Street (4, 19, 30, 43, 205, 214, 394)
  • Overground: Highbury & Islington (12 mins walk)
  • Parking: Limited street parking - public transport recommended

Theatre Information

  • London's first pub theatre, opened in 1970
  • Capacity: 110 seats - every seat has a great view
  • Located above the historic King's Head pub
  • Intimate, cabaret-style seating arrangement
  • Full accessibility information available from box office
  • Perfect for children's first theatre experience

Family-Friendly Information

  • Age guidance: Suitable for all ages from 3+ upwards
  • Duration: Approximately 2h 20min with one interval
  • Child tickets: Under 3s free if sitting on adult's lap
  • Facilities: Family-friendly facilities available
  • Pre-show: Arrive early to soak up the festive atmosphere

Christmas Refreshments

  • The King's Head Pub: Full pub menu available before shows
  • Interval: Drinks and snacks available from the pub
  • Family dining: Child-friendly options available
  • Festive atmosphere: Traditional pub decorated for Christmas