Andie Scott’s journey to create 95% sustainable theatre started at Jacksons Lane in 2016 with From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads, written and directed by Adrian Berry.
With Jack and the Beanstalk, each element of design has had its impact on the environment carefully considered, and follows the ethos of the Ecostage Pledge. The pledge (which you can sign here) asks theatre makers to consider to seven Rs: Reuse, Refuse, Reduce, Recycle, Rethink, Reimagine and Regenerate, in the pursuit of a more sustainable industry.
The original design for the Jack and the Beanstalk set. Credit: Andie ScottThe bare bones of the Jack and the Beanstalk set. Credit: Andie ScottThe Jack and the Beanstalk set. Photo: Alex Brenner
Andie used recycled cardboard flats to form the basis of the set. They are painted in organic household paints to create multifunctional elements that hide puppets, giants, beanstalks … and a messy bedroom. Jackie’s bed is made from in-house staging and recycled timber, incorporating performative circus silk drapes which are used for Jackie’s aerial display. Puppetry created by Alison Alexander is projected onto the white cyclorama backdrop to add story elements and characters .
Giant fairy tales are projected on stage. Photo: Alex Brenner
For the beanstalk, Andie looked at the intricate runner bean plants for inspiration. The Jacksons Lane beanstalk is made from reclaimed off-white organza fabric and uses corset boning from a previous project to form its structure. The multiple stalks are made from clear tubing that can be returned to the manufacturer for recycling.
A close up of the gauzy beanstalk. Credit: Andie ScottThe beanstalk in progress. Credit: Andie ScottThe cast of Jack and the Beanstalk inspect the growing beanstalk. Photo: Alex Brenner
The clouds are recycled plastic bottle fibres which were made into lampshades. They are joined together on a formation of paper lanterns which rescued from a Chinese opera project.
Paper lanterns become clouds. Credit: Andie ScottFluffy clouds glowing with internal light. Credit: Andie ScottPerformer Sam Newton up in the clouds. Photo: Alex Brenner
For the specialist effects, equipment has been hired in to ensure they get maximum reuse.
And what happens after the final performance? Much of the set already has a new home to go to. They’ll be taken to the National Centre for Circus Arts for a show in February 2023.
We are excited to share our annual review for April 2024 to March 2025. We are deeply grateful for the invaluable support from our community, which makes our impact possible. Our achievements in art, community outreach, and environmental initiatives are highlighted in this document, along with a financial overview.
Celebrating International Youth Day at Jacksons Lane
EmilyJL - 12th August 2025
This International Youth Day, we’re proud to celebrate the energy, creativity, and passion of the young people who make our venue vibrant, dynamic, and full of possibility.
Jacksons Lane Turns 50: A Weekend of Circus, Celebration, and Community
Jacksons Lane - 8th July 2025
On Saturday 28 June, Jacksons Lane turned 50 and we celebrated in true JL style. With circus, cabaret, creativity and community at every corner, over 800 people joined us for a day to remember. Here’s a look back at everything that made our big birthday so special.
We sat down with Amee Smith the Director of London Clown Festival, to find out what it takes to be a clown in 2025 and why the festival is the perfect fit for our theatre.
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