Babes in the Wood

My Christmas always seems to start with Beverley’s panto which generally gets everyone in the right mood.  This year’s was no exception.

Led by a strong nucleus of seasoned performers, many of whom are regulars with the society, we were provided with a traditional production involving music, dance, UV lighting and the usual corny gags, all of which were welcomed and enjoyed by an almost full house.  Songs were plentiful and all kept short so the whole thing moved at a good pace.  Perhaps I would have liked a bit more slapstick but that seems to be the way of the world nowadays.

Ian Thompson was once again very good as Dolly Dumpling and his partnership with Andy Collinson (Simon) worked very well as always – the audiences love them.  I enjoyed Hannah Wilson’s performance as Robin Hood very much and she looked a real principal boy.  Luke Cardwell was menacing as The Sheriff and utilised good variations of pitch in his dialogue.  Mandy Pearson and Laura Embleton formed a good comic team as Sally Slap and Tracey Tickle and I was impressed with Leo Brown and Millie Morris as the Babes, Tommy and Jane.  Roz Shallcross and Annie Lishman also performed well as the Fairy and Maid Marian.

There was a fairly large chorus, consisting mainly of ladies, who also contributed a number of smaller roles, all with smiles on their faces.  Costumes were good as were the sound, lighting and set.  All in all, a happy evening.

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