A Magical Night at the Gatehouse Theatre: Jack and the Beanstalk

If you’re looking for a festive treat that will have you laughing, singing, and even dancing in the aisles, look no further than Jack and the Beanstalk at the Gatehouse Theatre. This year’s panto is a sensational mix of high-energy fun, heartwarming moments, and truly stand-out performances that make it an unforgettable night for all ages.

From the moment the curtain rose, the audience was swept up in the magic of the story. Familiar characters came to life with a vibrant cast, stunning costumes, and hilarious scripts that had the whole theatre roaring with laughter. Mark Rhodes, best known for his work on CBBC, brought an infectious energy to the stage, captivating everyone with his charm and comedic timing. His connection with the audience was palpable, and it’s easy to see why he remains a fan favorite.

Another standout star was David Phipps-Davis, whose portrayal of the Dame was as fabulous as hilarious. His comic antics had everyone in stitches, but it was his surprise operatic performance that truly took the audience’s breath away. In a moment of pure theatrical magic, his soaring vocals added a touch of sophistication and wonder to the production 

Of course, no panto is complete without sing-along classics, and Jack and the Beanstalkdelivered these . The audience joined in clapping along to the beat. The whole show created an  atmosphere that perfectly captured the spirit of the season.

The sets and special effects also deserve a mention. From the towering beanstalk to the impressive giant. 

Overall, Jack and the Beanstalk at the Gatehouse Theatre is the perfect festive outing for families, friends, or anyone looking for a night of fun and laughter. With its mix of laugh-out-loud comedy, sing-along classics, and truly memorable performances. 

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic—book your tickets now and get ready to dance, laugh, and sing your way into Christmas. 

Passengers have been flying into airports including Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, and more locally to Stafford  Birmingham Airport throughout Monday, with more expected.

Do let us know if you or anyone you know has been impacted by the troubles. 

Tourists were forced to flee hotels and sleep outside as fires spread towards resorts on the eastern coast. As many as 10,000 Britons were estimated to be staying in Rhodes. 

Actually addicted !

The thought that we used to have penpals or that dating used to happen via a letter is seems so lovely now. Nowadays it’s a text asking you to get the milk! 

Do you still send letters I would love to hear about it if you do. 

Cat :-) 

Even as I arrived through the doors of the Gatehouse I felt the very real buzz of something special. The beautiful decorations start to shape the feelings that stay with you for the rest of the show. 

A Midsummer Night’s Dream' currently running until 9th July its directed by Sean Turner known as The Play That Goes Wrong) it’s an epic – and hilarious – tale of egos, gods, idiots and is one Shakespeare’s most popular works. 

Featuring a cast including Jonathan Hyde (Titanic, Jumanji), who plays Bottom and provides many of the laugh out loud moments. Kerry Ellis (Wicked, Les Miserable) her experience and stage presence shine through. Milly Zero (EastEnders, The Foreigner), as well as a fabulous cast of supporting actors who all bring a edge of extra sparkle.  

The set is nothing short of magical cleverly and smoothly transporting you to the magical world of a Midsummer nights dream and even includes a water feature! 

As you settle in to the show the portrayal of the characters means you find yourself forgetting you are listening to fabulous old English and gripped to the Shakespeare tale, until one of the lines we all know and love is delivered so excellently “the course of true love never did run smooth “ 

A must see show ! 

If you missed his chat the link to replay the show is below ( its about 20 mins in but why not listen to it all !)

Cat 

I have started a really exciting new feature on my show called The “Saturday Showcase” to find hidden local talent. I most definitely found it. The leading lady Hannah playing Elle blew my socks of singing the title track Legally Blond live on air and the beautiful harmonies of the Delta Nus brought to you by Kelly,Laura and Alex are something not to be missed. It’s all on our Facebook page if you missed it. 

It is amazing to think these ladies and infact the whole cast do this in their spare time and dedicate 6 months of rehearsals to put on an amazing show. 
 Grab your tickets to see this fabulous show it’s on at Stafford Gatehouse 3rd-6th May 23.

We went to the Odeon in town, I am still exicited that the seats recline an hour with your feet up as a mum is unknown! The staff were super helpful and friendly we always skip the trailers it’s so loud for the little one and they really helped with timing that. So it was straight in the Mario for us and I can’t believe it but I was gripped we all were me my husband and my little one. It’s a colour explosion and it’s funny and charming we didn’t even finish all our popcorn! 
 

Does this just prove that I am still a kid at heart or is it really a good film? 
 

Cat 

I have kinda told you the story backwards now that I really didn’t make the cut as the Easter bunny ! We were already a day late, because we were away on Easter Sunday and as my little one is 3 I thought it was ok. Turns out it was super windy on Monday  so all the signs blew all over the garden and the melted chocolate situation meant I had to use Haribo ! Both the 3 years old involved were very clear that the Easter bunny should bring chocolate. Fail ! 

One of those times when you look around for an more adulty adult. Better luck next year hey! 
 

Cat