Alice in Wonderland , a 'curious' pantomime

What changes take place during a lockdown giving time to reflect and prepare: very minimal sets with emphasis on lighting, no children in cast and no adult chorus (just all named and essential characters), a very strong and dedicated cast just pleased to be on stage, no band but click-tracks with more modern music, and new directors with a strong story line in a modern and contemporary script from Tom Whalley, called a ‘curious pantomime’ , which included all the roles from the original book. And we could ask with this production: was it really first night with the smooth running and professionalism?

What a delightful Alice from Laura Williams, looks and appeal, movement and singing voice, interaction throughout with all the characters, such a realistic performance to lead us through the story.

As the White Rabbit, Dave Griffiths was the partner to lead Alice into Wonderland, always in a hurry and behind himself, such a friendly and worried character.

And her ‘almost fairy godmother’, the Cheshire Cat from Beck Powell appearing always when needed and leading some of the action to progress the story.

The ‘baddie’, as Knave of Hearts who stole the tarts, Luke Jeffries had style and personality (which we knew from previous performances as Dame and Beast), a powerful singing voice, timing and acting skills, dominating the evil throughout to try to steal Wonderland from the Queen of Hearts (Amanda Kingsnorth).

The Duchess was Dame and first time Gary Largent managed to hold on in spite of the experienced strong cast, and burn the tarts in kitchen scene.

Just loved the Caterpillar, Tim Lovejoy, in glorious pantaloons plus hookah, and his dancing moths round the toadstools.

Fighting Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee (Simon Kitching and Lorna Podbury) joined into the action with energy.

And to that Tea Party with the musical chairs for cups around the table: The host Mad Hatter from Adam Bond was mega-energy and explosive, strong vocally and with personality. The March Hare (Charlie Wilson) again huge personality and big voice plus movement. And the Dormouse of Liz Staight comfortably falling asleep at each place setting.

Not to forget the Mock Turtle of Lynne Jeffries telling her tales on the seashore and beside the Pool leading into a superb UV sequence of sea creatures.

Regular Phil Pearson filled in as Knobby the Door and King of Hearts, not to destroy his record of being in every pantomime from Thetford.

And who needs extra chorus when adding the ‘cards’ for painting roses and assisting in croquet, really every aspect covered for story. And the Company were the energy and enthusiasm of each big number singing and dancing with style and precision giving fun to all who watch, a true ‘company show’.

And the final line must go to the costuming, what a wardrobe and a true delight and feast for the eyes, perfect.

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