Markyate Amateur Dramatics Society

2009 saw the performance of Jack and the Beanstalk – a village panto by Tom and Jess Reynolds. The story follows our dashing Markyate hero through times of poverty and strife at the hand of the giant’s henchman – Felton of Flamstead, and then off to Markyate market to sell Daisy the cow. Following a nasty exchange and a swapping of beans, a beanstalk grows in the garden of Jack’s mother, Dame Trott, and Jack and his two brothers, Simon and Sebastian climb the beanstalk to find out what is at the top. The boys find some soldiers, a hen that lays golden eggs, a singing harp and a giant! Jack finally saves the day by chopping down the beanstalk and rescuing Markyate from the giant’s clutches.

The show was wonderful – the cast did a splendid performance and there were many statements from the audiences siting JATB as the best MADS show yet! 2009 saw many new faces in the cast and crew, all of whom gave above and beyond the call of duty at rehearsals and during all the performances. The scenery was yet again, inspired – and along with the wonderful props and set, the show was visually spectacular, especially in the giant’s castle with the enormous table and wonderful cage. The cast must be commended for their wonderful singing – something which  has not always featured quite so much in past pantos, especially the last number – A ‘Markyate’ version of Petula Clark’s ‘Downtown’… A possible MADS anthem for the future!