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A review from 5D Music & Theatre writer Maria Robertson.
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HMT’s pantomime is very much an institution in Aberdeen, much loved by all. Produced by Crossroads Pantomimes, every year it is written and directed by Alan McHugh; who then plays the Dame, perhaps because no one else would want what he writes for that part! This year is his 20th anniversary being involved with the pantomime, and he is a very big part of its success. From his gorgeously garish outfits, to his hilariously terrible Dad jokes, the panto just would not be the panto without him/her! “Oh no, it wouldn’t!”
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This year there was the added excitement of being given 3D glasses as we walked in, which were apparently for the second half. As usual there is a varied cast, including the obligatory star “aff af the telly”. This year we have Gary: Tank Commander again, after his popularity last year. He makes me feel sad for the Paul J Corrigan, who plays the Buttons character, as we no longer yell hello at him, with that honour now given to Gaaaaary *cue pose*.
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Jack and Princess Jill were played by Michael Karl-Lewis and Jemma Ferries, they brought the cute element of romance to the story. Meanwhile the Dame is, as always, a poor widowed wifey. Certain elements of the panto do not change. We always get the sad story of woe of how daddy died, there are always some local jokes, the best one this year being about the dame’s new role as a stripper. There’s always songs adapted to the local pantomine, we were all happily singing We Love Aberdeen to an adaption of Starship’s We Built This City.
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My favourite bit every year is when they do a progressive song with four of the characters that always ends up with them hitting each other and a lot of laughter! This year is no exception, especially with the ballerina! The Buttons character this year got to be a very cute cow, called Pat. Yes that gave us mentions of Cow Pat – kids do love any poo related jokes! Poor Pat aka Paul had no udders, which also caused some hilarity. To me this was the star character of Jack and the Beanstalk:for all its moo jokes, some very cool cow dance moves, and just general cuteness. Actually the sheep were adorable too, especially the sad one when the animals were being sold off, bless them!
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After the interval the 3D glasses were cleverly used, for a sequence in the giant’s house. Although we all knew we had put on 3D glasses I presume some of us did not realise just how close some of the special effects would get to our faces as the screams echoed throughout the theatre – not least from myself!
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As is traditional in Aberdeen the HMT pantomime this year is a wonderful package of fun for all the family. There’s plenty of laughter, some singing, and absolutely fabulous outfits. One, involving an owl, just needs to be seen! If you have not already got tickets please rectify this situation immediately and do not deny yourself and your family a jolly good time!
Further information: https://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/whats-on/jack-and-the-beanstalk-2/
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Maria Robertson is the Chief Music & Theatre Writer for the 5D Pop Culture Website and provides reviews & coverage of local Aberdeen music & theatre gigs. She’s an experienced writer for numerous sources and is a self-confessed live gig addict ever since seeing The Counting Crows at the Barrowlands in 1994.
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