Emma Clarendon chatted to Lucy about starring in the Theatre Royal Stratford East’s pantomime Jack & the Beanstalk.
Hi Lucy, what can we expect from this production of Jack & the Beanstalk? This production of Jack and the Beanstalk is a glorious fusion of the traditional fairy tale with a lovely modern twist. Set in a village called Splatford where the mud miners are staging a protest against the giant Belch who steals their mud and charges exorbitant rent. It’s a show about community, courage and believing in yourself.
How has it been working on the production so far? It’s been amazing working on this show. Obviously, I think the show itself is ace – the writing, the music, the design – it’s all fantastic. But what’s really special is that everyone involved in it is literally dripping in talent (and genuinely lovely people too).
What do you love the most about this adaptation of the fairytale? My favourite thing about this adaptation is the diverse range of characters. While you can still expect to meet Jack and his mum in the dairy, you’ll also be falling in love with some new and unexpected faces.
What can you tell us about your character Flesh Creep? Most people will know Flesh Creep is traditionally a male character so it’s a total joy to be able to play the role as a woman. She works for the Giant Belch and she’s 100% Evil! She spends her time terrorising the residents of Splatford and teaching her privately educated son how to be the Boss of Bad.
What do you enjoy the most about pantomimes? I love panto and I always have. It’s such a unique artform and accessible to everyone; for a lot of us, it’s the first piece of theatre we ever see. As a stand-up comic, I love being able to have that relationship with the audience while telling a story and I am so excited to play the baddie in the production – bring on those boos!
By Emma Clarendon
Jack & the Beanstalk will play at the Theatre Royal Stratford East until the 6th January 2024. To book tickets visit: https://www.stratfordeast.com/whats-on/all-shows/jack-and-the-beanstalk-202324