Jack and the Beanstalk | Liverpool Everyman

Liverpool Everyman's Rock'n'Roll panto returns with its energetic and punchy take on traditional stories. Chloë Moss' take on Jack and the Beanstalk adapts the story so that Jack and his Mum, Dame Vera, own an occult shop titled Cosmic Crystals. When pantomime villain, Alan Sucre, and his meek sidekick, Roginald, plot to take over the shop, Fairy SpaceCake and his apprentice Jill help Jack and Dame Vera to reclaim what's rightfully there.

Whilst the plot has moments of really engaging material, too many subplots and character relationship dynamics leads to the show feeling very clunky at times. However, this is to be expected with a pantomime that never strives to take itself seriously, and the sharp wit and joy from the whole cast more than makes up for a jarring plot. Moss has also ensured that there's a great mix of scouse humour, adult jokes and silly gags for the children, with plenty of pop culture from 2025 that makes this pantomime an assured hit for all the family during the festive season.

Everyman's pantomime staple Adam Keast returns as Fairy SpaceCake with incredible crowd work and ad-libbing that has the audience on side instantaneously. However, it does feel like his crowd work with audience participation comes very early on in the first act and drags on for a little too long, stilting the pace in the first act. This is no fault of Keast, and his comedic timing and wit during moments of interaction with both the audience and other characters is joyous. Likewise, Liam Tobin is everything you could possibly want in a panto dame, with a faint likelihood to Paul O'Grady's Drag Alter-Ego Lily Savage. Tobin gives an incredibly strong portrayal of over-the-top campiness with vocal prowess to match.

Zoe West is the epitome of panto villain, lapping up the boos of the audience and bouncing off the energy of fellow cast members. It wouldn't be panto without the occasional on-stage mishap which West takes in their stride and uses it is a successful attempt to bring more comedic relief to the stage. Rebecca Levy and Amy Bastani both impress in the vocal numbers, whilst Theo Diederick brings warmth to the role of Roginald that makes you want to root for the underdog. Malek Alkoni brings charm and infectious energy as Jack, yet feels underused as the titular character. Elaine Hua Jones is a joy to watch as sassy Daisy the Cow.

One of the highlights of this pantomime are the musical numbers, which are performed incredibly well by the talented cast of actor-musicians. There really is songs to be enjoyed for all the family - from hit local band The Beatles to Pink Pony Club, The Climb and Golden. Musical Director Henry Brannan ensures that each song is punchy and vibrant.

Whilst this iteration of Jack and the Beanstalk has a confused plotline, one can't help but be whisked away by the infectious energy and joy from the entire cast. It truly is a festive treat for all the family.

Jack and the Beanstalk plays at the Liverpool Everyman until 17th January 2026.

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★★★☆☆ (3*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Ellie Kurttz