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Modern Twist on a Classic Fairytale:Jack and Phil, Giant-Slayers, INC.

By Allison Fort February 7, 2016
When Jack's mom tells him she's going to have to sell their house, he decides to take action with his best friend Phil by his side. The two take Jack's most valuable family heirloom to a pawn shop and trade it for...magic beans? In this world premiere play by Charles Way directed by Janet Stanford, Imagination Stage brings the classic story of Jack and the Beanstalk into the present day. 

Jack and Phil is a light-hearted, contemporary look at an old and much-loved tale with a strong message about friendship,” say Director Janet Stanford. “We have assembled a stellar acting company and I look forward to mining with them the depths of this new show’s comedy and emotional lows and highs.”

This modern fairy tale tackles issues kids and parents alike can relate to: friendship, feeling left behind, facing fears, money troubles, and moving, to name a few. Set in a present-day small town, Jack is a sporty, popular kid whose mother is facing foreclosure on their house. Jack enlists Phil, his smart yet nerdy neighbor, to accompany him to a pawnbroker to trade in his Grandfather’s gold watch for quick cash. Instead, the boys are paid in magic beans, and soon enough, a beanstalk grows tall with golden eggs, a harp, and a Giant’s home waiting at the top! After discovering the treasures, Jack becomes an overnight TV sensation, but his failure to acknowledge Phil’s help threatens the boys’ friendship, and very nearly leads to disaster when the Giant decides to come down from the beanstalk.

Imagination Stage recommends Jack and Phil for ages 5 and up. The giant's booming voice and plans to cook the two friends may frighten little theatergoers, but funny moments far outweigh the scary in this show. My first grader was a little scared by the giant, but we've already planned a return trip with her four year old brother.


Jack and Phil, Giant-Slayers, INC.
runs through March 13, 2016 in Imagination Stage’s Annette M. and Theodore N. Lerner Family Theatre. Tickets start at $10, and can be purchased online, at the Imagination Stage box office, or via phone at 301-280-1660. Group rates are available. 

Special Opportunities:
  • ASL-interpreted: February 21 at 4:00 p.m.
  • Sensory-Friendly: February 28 at 11:00 a.m. Sensory-Friendly performances are designed to be more accessible to those individuals on the autism spectrum or to others with sensory sensitivities. Please call 301-280-1660 for more information and to ensure proper seat location.
  • Saturday Magic Beanstalk Extravaganza: March 5 at 7:00 p.m. Make a mini magical beanstalk before the show!