Here is everything you need to know about Dundee Rep’s Christmas show: Jack and the Beanstalk
- Andrew Batchelor
- 59 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Dundee Rep is lighting up the festive season as its brand new Christmas show, Jack and the Beanstalk officially opens, kicking off a month of family friendly performances.
The show will run throughout December with a mix of evening performances at 7pm and popular weekend matinees at 2pm, giving audiences plenty of chances to enjoy the festive magic.
Tickets begin at £10, and with a running time of approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes including an interval, it offers a full and affordable Christmas outing for families, schools and festive theatre fans. The show is recommended for ages 5+.
A full programme of access performances ensures the production is as welcoming as possible. Dundee Rep will offer audio described, captioned, BSL interpreted and relaxed performances, allowing audiences with different access needs to enjoy the show in comfort.
These dates are clearly listed on the Rep’s website to make planning easy.
What’s the story about?
This year, the Rep puts a bold new spin on the classic tale by handing the storytelling reins to Caroline the Highland Cow.
Caroline guides the audience through a lively and imaginative reworking of Jack and the Beanstalk, filled with humour, warmth and modern twists. With catchy songs, colourful characters and a strong message about friendship and community, it promises a festive adventure that captures both heart and imagination.
Who’s the cast and crew?
The production features a talented 10 strong cast of actor musicians. Suzie McAdam stars as Caroline, joined by Lucy Hutchison as Henrietta, Laura Lovemore as Sherry, David Rankine as Harper and Connor Going as the Mysterious Man and Glen. Ronan O’Hara takes on the role of Jack, with Mairi Barclay as Truffles, Elena Bluck and Fergus Murphy in ensemble roles, and Lorraine Graham appearing as Lady Fluffington III.
The voice of the Giant is provided by Brian Cox, adding a standout star element to the show.
The creative team brings together some of the industry’s best talent. The production is written by Jonathan O’Neill and Isaac Savage, directed by Stephen Whitson, and designed by Kenneth MacLeod, who oversees set, costumes, video and puppet design.
Choreography comes from Lisa Darnell, with lighting by Derek Anderson and sound by Tom Penny. Musical direction is led by Isaac Savage, ensuring the show is packed with memorable tunes.
Supporting the creative vision is associate director and puppetry director Stacey Mitchell, dramaturg Debbie Hannan, puppet maker Neve Pearce and casting director Michael Howell.
Stage management is led by Camilla O’Neill, Naomi Stalker and Shay McCourt, bringing the production together night after night.
Suzie McAdam - Caroline
Lucy Hutchison - Henrietta
Laura Lovemore - Sherry
David Rankine - Harper
Connor Going - Mysterious Man and Glen
Ronan O’Hara - Jack
Mairi Barclay - Truffles
Elena Bluck - Ensemble
Lorraine Graham - Lady Fluffington III
Fergus Murphy - Ensemble
Brian Cox - Voice of the Giant
Creative Team:
Writers - Jonathan O’Neill and Isaac Savage
Director - Stephen Whitson
Set, Costume, Video and Puppet Designer - Kenneth MacLeod
Choreographer - Lisa Darnell
Lighting Designer - Derek Anderson
Sound Designer - Tom Penny
Musical Director - Isaac Savage
Associate Director and Puppetry Director - Stacey Mitchell
Associate Sound Designer - Facundo Mato
Dramaturg - Debbie Hannan
Puppet Maker - Neve Pearce
Casting Director - Michael Howell
Company Stage Manager - Camilla O’Neill
Deputy Stage Manager - Naomi Stalker
Assistant Stage Manager - Shay McCourt
Excitement has been building ahead of opening night, with behind the scenes images and even a visit from Tolsta and Ciorstaidh, two Highland cows who helped launch the show. Their appearance offered a playful preview of the fun and energy audiences can expect.
With its vibrant staging, charming humour and warm festive spirit, Jack and the Beanstalk at Dundee Rep is set to be one of Dundee’s standout Christmas events.
Whether you’re looking for family entertainment or a festive night out with friends, it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable seasonal highlight.
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