Jack and the Beanstalk

IRT presents a classic tale with a new twist

This summer, Idaho Repertory Theatre presents Jack and the Beanstalk. In this 90-minute musical, young Jack uses the power of imagination to escape “b-o-r-r-i-n-g”1930’s Depression-Era farm life.

According to playwright Doug Jones, Jack and the Beanstalk is inspired by a classic comic strip. “I loved ‘Calvin & Hobbes’ because it was smart and funny and its only limits were Calvin's imagination. He had adventures on prehistoric Earth and in outer space, became a particle of light, and jumped out of his own skin. There was no scenario so perilous that he couldn't imagine or duplicate or transmogrify himself into and out of it.” Like Calvin, Jack uses his imagination to create a whimsical world where Harps sing, Beanstalks walk, and a barn can become a Giant’s fortress.

Because Jack is such a wildly inventive character, IRT’s designers must also be creative. How do you create the illusion of a talking Hen and an opinionated Cow? Life-sized puppets! Another special effect is a beanstalk that literally grows before your eyes. Scenic Designer Will Tedrow will find a creative solution for this unique challenge; be sure to come to the theatre and see how he does it!
Jack and the Beanstalk, with music by Ron Barnett, will be presented on the Hartung Theatre Outdoor Stage June 27 – July 12. Lawn seating is available at reduced prices and families are invited to picnic on the lawn before the show.  

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About the Playwright

Doug Jones has written and produced over forty plays and screenplays. According to The Richmond News-Leader, Jones's work for young audiences reveals “a fascination with the infinite expressiveness and flexibility of the English language that rivals Sesame Street." J. Christie noted that Jones has “a bit of the late Jim Henson's gift for finding the inner voices of children."

Jones holds degrees with honors from the University of Chicago and the University of Virginia; he is a member of The Dramatists Guild and The Authors League of America. Jones lives in Richmond, Virginia with his wife and daughter.

Doug Jones has written and produced over forty plays and screenplays. According to The Richmond News-Leader, Jones's work for young audiences reveals “a fascination with the infinite expressiveness and flexibility of the English language that rivals Sesame Street." J. Christie noted that Jones has “a bit of the late Jim Henson's gift for finding the inner voices of children." Jones holds degrees with honors from the University of Chicago and the University of Virginia; he is a member of The Dramatists Guild and The Authors League of America. Jones lives in Richmond, Virginia with his wife and daughter.