A Titanic Pantomime

My NODA colleagues and I, who were lucky enough to be invited to see this pantomime by our friends CADS in the Jubilee Community Hall in Rothbury, had an extensive conversation prior to the show regarding the subject, and how on earth anyone could construct a panto story around one of the world’s most devastating maritime disasters… Step up Mr John Mawer; the writer and director of one of the most fabulous and convoluted shows of the genre I have ever witnessed.

In his programme notes, John says – ‘The inspiration for this year’s show may be unorthodox, but it is very much a traditional family pantomime. What are those penguins up to? Where is Ronald’s father? Will Dotty marry Nicholas? Was it wise to transport the Sucrose Cubicon of Pharaoh Whambardibdab by sea? Will Elisa escape her evil father Erasmus? What’s in that bag? And can someone do something about that seagull?’ Just some of the intertwined stories which made it onto the script page for this year’s offering, from the hundreds he has flying around in his head!.

I found it a panto which you had to listen to intently, in order to appreciate the story lines as they developed, and wondered if the younger members of the audience would be able to understand the ‘unfolding’ and wealth of one-liners which were being fired at us. I did and was amazed!... and judging by the silence in the audience during the action (apart from laughter and the participation) and the ovation after the final curtain, so did everyone else.

It was certainly a show which triumphed over the lack of available space and facilities otherwise offered by a bespoke theatre venue; with a super set, excellent lighting and sound, beautiful colourful costumes and makeup, and excellent props, great direction – both onstage and from the pit; thanks to John (assisted by Kirsty and Robert Famelton) and the superb Stella Deckers Coulter – MD and her percussionist Rich. John can be super-proud of his entire Team; who all worked their ‘proverbials’ off to make this very difficult show work. You all deserve a medal as big as a frying pan!!.

I will not attempt to mention anyone from the cast, because they were all superb. However, I will give a big shout out to the younger members of the principal and supporting line-ups. It is wonderful to see them developing and becoming proper actors and singers under careful direction. Congratulations to them and their mentors. The future of pantomime in Rothbury is safe and secure. Well done!.

By the way; what was in the bag was; the ‘Geordie Were-Ferret’… which did eventually end up down somebody’s trousers… enough said!!!.

Many thanks from Regional Councillor Peter, Past President Gordon, my companion Pauleen and me for the invitations. We all had a very enjoyable afternoon. Congratulations to all concerned.

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