Once again Glasgow’s Pavilion Theatre has delivered a fabulous, fun-filled feast of entertainment for all the family. This year’s offering Jock and the Beanstalk takes the traditional panto tale and gives it a gallus Glasgow twist.
Our hero Jock lives in Cowcuddles on the Clyde with his larger than life mammie Dame Tina Trott, his brother and the family cow Buttercup. The trio don’t have a bean to their name and the rent is due to Giant Glaickitguts whose castle in the sky brings perpetual darkness to the tiny town. When Jock goes in search of some much needed cash, things don’t exactly go to plan.
As well as a giant there are a host of villagers, King Clanky, his daughter and side-kick Mayor Manky, a gold harp, a goose that lays golden eggs, the giant’s evil henchman Fleshcreep, eye-popping scenery, crazy costume changes, current memes, familiar songs, silly skits and belly-laughs a-plenty.
While there are some utterly bonkers sequences the story largely sticks to the familiar fairy tale so the tiniest audience members can follow along happily with the madness until the much hoped for happy ending. There’s absolutely no time to draw breath between the laughs, and no time when the audience attention wanders. The dance routines are executed with verve and energy, the songs sung with gusto.
Where the Pavilion panto wins is its cast. This is a well-oiled machine and the chemistry between the performers is tangible. Their affection for one another, their warmth and camaraderie transmits to the audience. Each actor plays to their strengths and everyone gets their chance to shine, as a result there’s a real joy in the air throughout. It also wins by sticking to panto traditions but delivering them with joy and affection for Glasgow and its audience.
A fantastic, five star, fun, family treat. A feast for the eyes, a treat for the ears, making it the ultimate family pantomime in town.
Runs until 11 January 2026 | Image: Martin Shields
100%
Five star family fun