*** 3 STARS ***
‘Sparkly, magical and a little bit bonkers’. The Everyman Rock ‘N’ Roll Panto is back for another year and is the perfect way to start the Christmas season off right. With fun for all the family, this naughty, comedic and completely camp spectacle makes for a joyous festive night out.
Jack and Jill went up the hill but who there did they meet? A spectacular cast of actor-musicians, a fairy (played by the incredible-as-ever Adam Keast), and an unwittingly unaware Philadelphian audience member, named Anthony. This fairytale pantomime brings laughter, love and lyrics for all ages to sing along to including Golden by Huntr/x and Magic by Pilot.
Whilst the show in its entirety felt slightly slow and stilted, unable to comically lean into the mishaps happening onstage, the vocals from the cast were beyond brilliant. Strongest vocal performances most definitely came from Amy Bastani in the role of Jill, with her compelling melodies, harmonies and storytelling making her the one to watch: it is slightly disheartening that her talent was not utilised more by the creative team. Ensemble performers Elaine Hua Jones and Rebecca Levy (the latter also taking charge of the exquisite choreography), playing various roles including Daisy and Ruby respectively, were the complete highlights of the show. Their versatility and quality of performance made them an absolute joy to watch, working alone, working together and playing within the band. A mastery in comic timing, this pair are made to work together.
It’s hard to find a pantomime without a great Dame and Liam Tobin’s Vera certainly didn’t disappoint. From iconic vocal performances to naughty jokes and crude remarks, Tobin demonstrated exactly what a great Dame should be. It would’ve been wonderful to see more of Tobin and Keast together as they would have made a powerhouse duo.
Technically, the show is an utter visual extravaganza which can heavily be attributed to set and costume designer, Katie Scott. With a wardrobe full of what could have been a crazed ABBA fan’s discoteque explosion, this show created visual display that was even more camp than Christmas! The glitter, sparkles and winged denim jackets evoked a sense of jealousy whilst watching: a message to the Everyman – if you’ve got any going spare, I’ll take one!
Despite the slower pacing, lack of energy and panto professionalism at points, Jack and the Beanstalk was still an ultimate success with fun for all the family. If you’re around Liverpool this festive season, the Everyman panto is worth a visit.
The Everyman Rock ‘N’ Roll Panto: Jack and the Beanstalk plays at the Liverpool Everyman Theatre until Saturday 17th January 2026. You can purchase tickets and find out more information here.
Harley Keasey 
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