This new musical twist to the old tale has Jack, the beanstalk, and the giant. But this giant has no desire to frighten people or eat Englishmen; he plays the villainous role only to protect his family's bad name. When Jack and his friend Polly climb the beanstalk, Wog befriends them and together they plot to foil the townspeople's plans to chop down the beanstalk and destroy Wog. In the end Polly and Wog fall in love, the villains are defeated, and Jack turns the beanstalk into a tourist attraction.

The play takes place in the giant's castle; Mother Goose costumes fit the cartoon-like quality of this play very well, but other choices are possible.

"An enchanting fable that has been drawing thousands of young children from all parts of South Jersey...The sparkling script is littered with literate puns, word plays, and one-liners that are as entertaining for adults as for children. The musical compositions are first-rate. They are simple but tuneful, melodic, and memorable."—Paul Merkoski, Atlantic City Press.

BEANSTALK! has been performed by New York Children's Theatre, West Chester College, University of West Florida, Burlington Footlighters, and numerous other theatres to high praise from producing companies, audiences, and critics: "Don't miss Beanstalk! If you're a child, bring an adult."—Jim Alexander, Gloucester County (NJ) Times. "Terrific show! We had a great time with it."—David Selby, TV star, New York Children's Theatre. "This lively play deserves attention from all theatres catering to young people."—AATE Stage of the Art.

Joseph Robinette, the author, has written or co-authored approximately 40 produced plays (including 11 children's musicals), many of which have been published. James R. Shaw, the composer, has written the music for several children's shows, an opera, art songs and choral compositions.

Other Robinette plays: A*B*C*, Penny and the Magic Medallion

See also: Plays for Elementary and Junior High