Not only is there a prancing cow called Daisy who has a mind of her own, particularly when being milked, there is also a sausage eating cat. Five young dancers perform originally choreographed work. For instance, at the opening of the second half they gently wave nylon drapes to become clouds. A clap of thunder shatters the tranquility they have created and Teddy (Gary Hocking), a cuddly orange haired loner who longs for a girlfriend, rushes past in a rocket.
He had no need to worry for Tilly (Christine Perry), a pig tailed temptress throws herself at him. There is a magical moment when huge ingredients are prepared for the giant's cooking pot but I won't give away how it is done. It's all for the giant's next meal which is, you guessed it, Daisy the Cow.
The giant also acquired a cook, Dame Trott - a bosomy bird played by John Walker, and "her" prospective daughter-in-law, Jill (Vicky Harrison). They are captured by the Giant's helpers Mistress Squelch (Anita Partridge) and Mister Squirm (Gareth Jones). "We are wicked and we are going to stay wicked," they saybut they get their come-uppance when they are forced to work for Trafford Council! Marina Anderson's Jack rescues the prisoners.
The leggy, thigh slapping principal boy doesn't give the giant a chance. There's a happy ending when three couples wed including the Dame who ties the knot with stingy rent-collector Septimus Screwitt (John Partridge).
Most importantly, the show is child friendly. The kids are absorbed and its not too long for them. At the end, they, and the big kids too, sing a song with the burning question, "why does a red cow give white milk when it only eats green grass?" All good fun
Julia Taylor
20th January 2005