Ross Brechin, from Aberdeen Arts Centre and Theatre, talks about the centre’s pantomime
WHO IS PUTTING ON THE PANTO AND WHAT’S IT ABOUT?
It’s being presented by Castlegate Arts, which has been in existence since 1989. This is the sixth pantomime it has presented here. The show is based on the traditional tale of Jack and the Beanstalk, in which young lad Jack is forced to sell his much-loved cow. In return for parting with his cow, Milky White, Jack gets some magic beans and soon spells are being cast by Dr Fa (Joanne Randle) and the evil Galactica (Samantha Gray). Jack leads his friends, Victoria Alice Park (Mairi Davidson) and Duffie Park (Jennifer McKinnon Magee), on an adventure via a beanstalk that goes right through the roof of the theatre and has turned the outside clock tower green – look out for it as you pass by.
DOES THE SHOW HAVE LOTS OF MUSICAL NUMBERS?
There’s a nine-strong cast and they are all very talented. The show has numerous song and dance routines, with a dozen fun versions of current pop songs such as Burn, Up All Night and Dear Future Husband. The performers all sing live to a pre-recorded backing track, which is pretty impressive. The show’s musical director is Graham Reid who previously has been musical director for Lyric, DMS, Attic and Aberdeen Opera Company.
PANTOS HAVE A TRADITION OF TARGETING WELL-KNOWN LOCAL PERSONALITIES. WHO IS IN THE FIRING LINE THIS YEAR?
Aberdeen Provost George Adam. He’s been an excellent sport and very supportive of the show. Jack’s mother and show dame is Ma Ruby Tress (Jamie Rodden) and during the panto there’s a video shown of Mr Adam having his hair done by Ruby Tress which is hilarious.
WHAT ELSE IS SPECIAL ABOUT THIS PANTO?
There’s a Spanish cat, talking animals, a larger-than-life dame, outrageous costumes, a brilliant set, lots of laughs and jokes, references to Star Wars, and a huge beanstalk. The layout of the theatre also means there’s no such thing as a bad seat, so everyone gets a good view.
IS IT SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES?
Absolutely. There’s even a special relaxed performance on Friday, December 11, at 7pm which would be suitable for very young children or adults with special requirements. During it, any loud bangs or noises are toned down to create a generally quieter experience. Then, next Wednesday, December 16, there’s a show that’s strictly for adults. It’s the same show, but the material is much ruder and for grownups only.
WHERE AND WHEN CAN YOU SEE THE SHOW?
Jack and the Beanstalk is at the Arts Centre and Theatre, King Street, Aberdeen, until Thursday, December 24. Contact 01224 635208 or www.act-aberdeen.org.uk for tickets and further information.
OTHER PANTOMIMES TAKING PLACE INCLUDE:
Aladdin, presented by the Dingwall Players at Dingwall Academy from December 10-12. Performances at 7.30pm nightly plus Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets £8 and £5 concession from the Sport and Model Shop, High Street, Dingwall. For group bookings of 10 or more, contact: 0796 987 5202.
Aladdin, presented by the Ury Players at Stonehaven Town Hall, from December 9-12. Performances at 7.30pm nightly, plus Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets £10 and £8 from The Rose Bowl, Barclay Street, Stonehaven. Contact: www.uryplayers.co.uk
Beauty and the Beast, presented by Elgin Amateur Dramatic Society at Elgin Town Hall from December 9-12. Performances at 7pm nightly plus Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets £11 and £9 from Beaver Travel, South Street, Elgin or by calling 07902 315715.
Babes in the Wood, presented by The Florians at the Florians Theatre, Bught Park, Inverness, until December 12. Performances at 7.30pm nightly plus Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets £11 and £5.50. Contact: Box office on 0333 666 3366.