Just like the fabled magic beans, this latest production of ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ by Lyngo Theatre, UK (brought in by Act 3 International) is full of surprises and I’m trying very hard not to well…spill the beans.

But this I can say: that at the end of the performance, we felt reluctant to leave the theatre! It was entertaining enough to have the adults and kids in the audience riveted to our seats. Even our 2 year-old offered a few chuckles throughout the show! Here’s what you can look forward to:

The Story-line:
In case you’re worried if it gets too creative until the story-line is changed drastically, don’t worry, it didn’t change much at all despite it being given a creative and interactive spin. The story about a poor boy that sold his cow for a couple of magic beans that drew his mother’s ire and eventually vindicated himself by stealing the giant’s golden harp (other version was goose) stuck very much to its origins.

The Interactivity:
This is the cool part. The performance does interact with the audience by involving them in some antics, jokes but not to worry, no invitation to go on stage (not till the Backstage Tour segment). But do note that some audience members in front may be slightly wet (but not too much) from one of the antics. Harmless fun.

 

The Acting :
The props are minimal and don’t expect too much costume changes but herein lies pure unadulterated acting at its best. Filled with exchanges with the audience, mime and just that bit of slapstick but with lots of imagination certainly kept the audience entertained.

The Humor:
Witty, clever and amusing. Not corny or anything and with that bit of slapstick thrown in, it was short, sweet entertainment at its best. The humour effectively engage both kids and adult alike. Quite an amazing feat really!

The Music:
It’s not a musical but I need to mention that the music was composed specifically to fit the production. Apparently, the composer had sat through the pre-production stage , watched it and composed the accompanying soundtracks for it. The result? Music that is the perfect fit to help with the ebb and flow of the production, making the emotions and mood of this well-known fable come alive for the audience. Kudos!

The Venue:
The venue played a big part. Set in the intimate Black Box of the Drama Center, it created a sense of closeness to the entire production – an important aspect for keeping this classic fable intriguing. It’s so intimate the lines were in fact delivered ‘unplugged’ – without any microphones hence increases the perception that, like all good fables, read by someone familiar and in a cosy, comfortable venue. Brilliant!

‘Behind the Scenes’ Backstage TourWorkshop:
The magic of Jack and the Beanstalk doesn’t just stop when the show ends! Sign up (for a small fee) for the Backstage Tour and get to hear first-hand from the crew about the ‘magic’ behind this exceptional production.

 

The long and short of it all:
A well-known fable done exceptionally well through fine and creative acting set in an intimate environment. Entertaining and engaging for adult and children alike, this is a production not to be missed.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

Season Dates: September 6 to 18 2016

Venue: Drama Centre Black Box
100 Victoria Street, Level 5
National Library Building
Singapore 188064

TICKET PRICES: (All prices exclude SISTIC and handling fees)
Weekdays – $28 for child or adult
Weekends (including Monday, September 12) – $38 for child or adult
*$46 for child or adult with Backstage Tour

HOW TO BOOK
By internet: www.sistic.com.sg

By phone: SISTIC Hotline: 6348 5555

Official Website: ACT3 International