Leader of Hammersmith & Fulham, Cllr Stephen Cowan (centre), on stage with the cast of the Lyric Hammersmith's panto Jack and the Beanstalk
The Lyric Hammersmith theatre's annual panto is in full swing. This year it’s family favourite Jack and the Beanstalk.
The two-hour show – the Lyric’s 13th pantomime – is suitable for everyone over six. Regular tickets start from £10. It runs until 7 January, with matinees as well as evening performances.
The show, written by Sonia Jalaly and Jude Christian, is a modern twist on the classic fairy tale, including extreme skateboarding, Beyoncé and even a new take on Jack herself.
Of course, Daisy the Cow (who, apparently, can sing “like no udder”!) also features, as well as an evil giant, magic beans and exploding confetti canons.
Jodie Jacobs (who has already appeared in the Lyric’s Cinderella and Dick Whittington) plays Fleshcreep; Emmanuel Akwafo plays Dame Trott; Maddison Bulleyment is Jill and Finlay McGuigan takes the part of Simon.
Nicholai La Barrie directs the show in his first foray into pantomime. “It’s going to be funny, joyous and full of Christmas magic,” he promised.
“One of the great things about getting to make a panto at the Lyric is that we get to speak to the community and make a show for all to enjoy.
“We can’t wait to hear kids laugh as loud as they like; we want the whole family to have the best time in the theatre, and for this to be an unforgettable experience.”
Cast of stars
Adam Gerber is the musical director, with Arielle Smith choreographing the dance moves.
Set designer James Perkins said: “The challenges have been making a beanstalk appear from nowhere, and making a big, scary giant that can eat people!”
Father Christmas with Raymond Briggs
For even younger audiences, the Lyric Studio presents Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas from Wednesday 23 November to Saturday 31 December.
Directed by Emma Earle and featuring live music, songs and puppetry, it tells the story of a grumpy but loveable Santa getting everything ready for his busiest day of the year.
Tickets start from £10, and the show runs for 50 minutes.
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