Review: Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime at Fairfield Halls, Croydon

It’s Croydon’s Christmas pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk, of course - oh yes it is!

My friend and I went along to the sold out show at Fairfield Halls on Thursday evening to leave our worries behind and revert back to our childhoods for a couple of hours.

Thanks to the triumphant casting of Sid Sloane (CBeebies) as the lead, Jack Trott became my favourite panto hero of the year.

This energetic, silky-smooth voiced kids’ entertainer was a real joy to watch.

He put everything he had into the role and it meant even the adults were swept off to a magical land of endless possibilities.

It is truly incredible to think he does this twice a day with as much gusto.

Each child in the audience was hanging off his every word, and screaming desperately for him to overcome the gigantic evil forces.

We see EastEnders’ Laila Morse step out as Fairy Sugarsnap, appearing every now and again to relay poetic story updates.

Unfortuantely, the puff of smoke to signify Laila’s entry is the most exciting part about these interludes, as to us she seemed a little bored.

But perhaps that’s just her deadpan sense of humour shining through.

Quinn Patrick's portrayal of Dame Trott is hilarious, full of flirty one-liners and he (sorry, she) comes complete with the most outrageous costumes I’ve ever seen on stage.

Of course, no panto in 2012 would be complete without a surprise rendition of Psy’s Gangnam Style – but at least this one has a cow joining in as well.

In fact, Daisy the adorable dairy cow added an undeniable cute factor to the show - I caught myself saying “aw” far too many times for a grown woman.

Special mention has to go to Gemma Sutton for her performance as Princess Tamara.

Wow, this girl can sing.

She belted out classic pop songs including Mariah Carey’s Hero, plus a few modern numbers to keep the kids happy.

A true star, I was taken aback by her beautiful tones.

One of the highlights was watching the set transform as Jack’s beanstalk grew up to the heavens.

Our hero set about climbing the mammoth root to rescue his princess and defeat the giant.

And after the interval, we were transported to a magical land above the clouds with the help of smoke machines and fabulous set design.

The world’s tallest actor, Neil Fingleton, stands at 7ft 7ins and made a shocking appearance as the evil giant, bringing to life the fairytale.

I imagine it would be overwhelmingly exciting to get lifted up by this colossus.

But don't worry, I won't spoil the biggest surprise - all I will say is peas at the ready.

Performances run until January 6.

Visit fairfield.co.uk