Babes in the Wood

This was traditional pantomime but with a few variations, not least the introduction by Lara Beale (aged 13) as Fairy Silver Leaf. It was very well directed by Marlene and also well prepared with a large cast of very talented dancers from The Hollis School of Dance to accommodate and a lot of scene changes with the limited facilities available. There was a lot of fun and frivolity with well-chosen foot-tapping songs and delightful dance routines. The scenery was quite outstanding, the lighting and other effects were pleasing and the costumes were eye-catching and colourful. The band's support was good, always providing accompaniment and never drowning out the vocals. The chorus/ minor principals’ participation was very sound and all the main characters were nicely portrayed. On stage we had a good mixture of experience and youth led by Stevie Lambert as an excellent dame, who ensured the viewers participation throughout. At the start of the evening although there were quite a few youngsters amongst the spectators, they were rather quiet. However, once they realised they could boo, hiss and cheer they joined in the fun with plenty of spirit. Supporting him was Kellie Aylward as a great ‘Muddles’ who threw herself about the stage causing much merriment within the audience of all ages. Jordan Fry was suitably evil as the Sheriff of Nottingham with his two henchmen, Aaron Ost and Ruben Pol  who were very amusing as the comic duo Dirty Dan and Dizzy Des. Meg Lake (Robin Hood), Bryony-Rose Brookman (Maid Marion) and all his merry men performed and sang with confidence and Lewis and Livvy Wells shone in their parts as the Babes, Their song ‘Somewhere Out There‘ was pure magic! I freely admit my favourite scenes were the nursery when the toys all came to life and the classroom scene with all the children, Muddles, Dame Penelope and the comic duo. The making of this Panto was the wonderful clever little touches which I suspect were incorporated by the director. Overall great entertainment enjoyed by the young and not so young, and I am sure that includes the performers as well!.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.