ACT Reviews 2022-2023 Season

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Directed by: Jim Rowe Choreographed by: Rachael O’Hara Bacup Royal Court Theatre It has been an exciting twelve months at Bacup Royal Court Theatre being able to be open fully for a whole year since Covid restrictions were lifted. Throughout the year, a rich variety of shows have graced the stage and the audiences continue to visit the

theatre because of its sound reputation. It is wonderful to see how well supported the theatre is by volunteers and upon arrival I was warmly welcomed. It is clear to see how close this theatre is to the hearts of so many and the atmosphere was friendly and light. Having been a performer myself on the stage of Bacup Royal Court Theatre, I was very much looking forward to being an audience member as I fully appreciate the amount of work that goes in to putting on a production, and the commitment it requires from the performers, production team and crew alike. Before I begin, I would like to say how proud you should all feel. It was with great anticipation that I sat and waited for the curtain to rise on yet another pantomime at Bacup Royal Court Theatre after the huge success that was ‘Cinderella’ last year. I was a little disappointed to see so many empty seats, however , I did visit on opening night, and I really do hope that numbers increase throughout the show’s run. As the lights in the auditorium went down and the stage was lit, we were greeted firstly by Amy Barnes in a floor length, green, glittery gown and suddenly the whole theatre was filled with sparkly lights, created by the disco balls hanging from the ceiling. Magic was in the air from the start! It was an impressive way to begin and instantly had me thinking that I was in for a treat. Amy sang ‘Dreams Can Learn to Fly’ and this was the vocal stand out performance of the show. As we were introduced to the principal characters, it was clear that this would be a very funny show. The high energy exuberated by Jack