LOCHGELLY Centre audiences had the chance to see a fabulous local panto, writes Times theatre critic Kerry Black.

Following on the success of their previous productions, Jack and the Beanstalk is presented by Nardone’s Academy of Performing Arts.

Headed up by local lad Liam Nardone, who also directed and choreographed the show, this is a hilarious wee panto, jam packed with local references and couthy Scots humour.

Liam has previously played the Dame in Lochgelly High School pantomimes and with his madcap range of colourful outfits, zany wigs and teetering high heels, he certainly did not disappoint the audience with his madcap portrayal of Dame Daisy.

Shay McLelland made a great wee Jack, while Courtney Bryson excelled in the comedy role of Archie, Jack’s chakkit brother, who sells their beloved cow Moo Moo for a handful of beans.

The sight of a REAL pantomime cow brought squeals of delight from the entire hall. Full marks to Kelsie McCall and Katie Bell for their joint depiction of a mad cow!

Tegan White looked stunning as Fairy Flora who constantly tried to thwart the evil Fleshcreep (another strong comedy performance from the ever reliable Emily Juner). A personal highlight for me was Freya Riley’s solo song as Princess Lulu.

The principal cast was completed by Dylan Weatherup and Carlie Sneddon as the King and Queen, plus Liam Gavin and Abbie Black as The Wizard and Little Fairy.

This was a young cast, bursting with exuberance and there were bright, bouncy song and dance routines galore, plenty of audience participation, mad Benny Hill style chases and of course the sweetie throw!

While Jack and the Beanstalk may not have the multi million pound budget of some of the big city pantomimes, it more than makes up for it with plenty of heart and humour and more sequins and feathers than you can shake a magic wand at.

The colourful sets also added to the quality of the show, especially the fabulous beanstalk and giant’s chair. There is even a beanstalk complete with giant’s feet at the theatre reception desk! The packed opening night audience certainly raised the roof with cheers and applause.

Jack and the Beanstalk was at the Lochgelly Centre from Tuesday December 18 to Thursday December 20 and was playing to huge audiences nightly and on Thursday was wold out, oh yes it was.