Babes in the Wood

This pantomime is not one I’ve seen performed too often in the past; based loosely on the shocking tale of the Princes in the Tower who were murdered by their uncle back in medieval times.  The story has been sanitized over the years, of course, and is now the feel-good tale we had before us at Spennymoor. Packed with musical interludes ranging from inspirational songs to emotional ballads, there was something for everyone in the audience which was made up equally between children and adults.

‘Sheriff of Nottingham’ (Paul Rodgerson) was evil personified, with little or no redeeming features as he berated the audience mercilessly whilst setting out his intentions to have his nephew and niece murdered in order to gain his brothers inheritance. The two ‘Babes’ in this case were ‘Tommy and Jane’ (Andy Stewart and Kyla Hodgson) who were being looked after by their new nurse ‘Glenda Glucose’, played with affable humour by Steve Hodgson, whilst helped along by the Sheriff’s ward ‘Maid Marion’ (Bethany Dagnall). Bethany looked suitably ‘princess-like’ to attract the attentions of ‘Robin Hood’ played well in principal boy fashion by Natalie Wile, who sang well despite a heavy throat infection. Along with ‘his’ band of merry men led by ‘Little John’ (Eric Hickson) and ‘Friar Tuck’ (Paul Simpson,) the outlaws managed to foil the Sheriff at every step until the return of ‘Richard the Lionheart’ (David Henshaw) who managed to curtail his evil. The Sheriff was hindered by having two inept helpers ‘Dennis the Menace’ and ‘Slippery Sam’ (Ryan Chatt and Liam Etherington respectively) who shone in their roles. The chorus, whilst not having a great deal to do made the most of their opportunities and added to the performance.

In the role of ‘Alfred Acorn’ – a forest sprite – was Alex Sneath who looked at ease on the stage despite his youth as he pleasantly watched over the babes through his actions and warm vocals. Once again Malcolm Cooper engaged the audience with his portrayal of daft lad ‘Simon the Spyman’, and made him a firm favourite with the children (and adults), especially in his twosome scenes with Nurse Glucose. Both characters seemed to bounce of each other with ease.

As usual Martyn Jones’ trio of musicians provided a rich sound, while the set and cloths were suitable to the scene and era. Choreography was simple but performed well by the juvenile dancers, and costumes colourful. It was pleasing to see so many juveniles in the production and it is to be hoped that in this, the groups centenary year, they are able to nurture them into becoming adult members. Looking forward to ‘Chess’ – well done Karen Butler and Spennymoor Stage and Song.

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