Durham Gala Theatre – until 31 December 2025
Reviewed by Becca Bramfitt
4****
Durham Gala’s Jack and the Beanstalk springs to life with all the heart, humour and homegrown spirit you’d hope for from a true North East Christmas tradition. Written by Gary Kitching and directed with a lively, generous touch by Jacob Anderton, this year’s panto is a joyful reminder of why families return to the Gala year after year: it feels like home, only louder, brighter and a whole lot sillier.
From the moment the curtain rises, the show wraps the audience in that unmistakable family feel—full of warmth, familiar faces, and a comforting sense that everyone, from the littlest audience member to the biggest giant, is in on the fun. The performance strikes a perfect balance between the traditional pantomime spirit and fresh local flavour, peppered with Durham jokes, cheeky knowing winks and a big helping of community pride.
Leading the charge is Kieron Michael as Jack, whose charm and enthusiasm anchor the adventure beautifully. Jude Nelson’s Muddles is a nonstop whirlwind of energy, winning over the crowd with playful mischief and spot-on comic timing. Sarah Bulmer shines as the ever-loving (and ever-loud) Mrs Tinkler, delivering some of the night’s funniest lines with gusto. Adam Donaldson makes a wonderfully boo-able Professor Hangclaw, while Lucy Davis brings warmth and wit as Bridget. And Susie Barrett’s Bronwen adds a lovely mix of sparkle and strength, rounding out a cast that works together with infectious joy.
The creative team deserves huge credit for crafting such an enchanting world. Gabrielle Ball’s musical direction fills the theatre with toe-tapping arrangements that have adults humming and children singing along without hesitation. Choreographer Helen West keeps the stage buzzing with dazzling dance routines, each one packed with energy and tight teamwork. And Emily Baxendale’s costumes are nothing short of stunning—bold, colourful and full of character, they elevate every scene and help make the show a true visual treat.
Of course, no panto is complete without the gags, and this production delivers them thick and fast. From silly set-ups to perfectly timed physical comedy, the laughter never dips for long. Add in a few clever surprises, some well-loved traditions, and more than a handful of audience participation moments, and you’ve got a show that keeps families grinning from start to finish.
Durham Gala’s Jack and the Beanstalk is a warm, hilarious, and wonderfully wholesome festive treat—an easy choice for families looking for a panto packed with heart, humour, and hometown magic.