Beauty and The Beast

 

 

This Pantomime has proved to be a very popular one judging by the packed audiences throughout the run.The script by Tony Bradford and Tina Webster had many of the elements of the original well-known tale, mixed with characters from the film together with the traditional Pantomime Dame and the good and evil aspects.

The curtains opened to reveal a colourful set and congratulations to all involved with set construction, for the variety of different settings, moving from the Village of Petit Pois to the Castle of Prince Louis then into the mountains (with artificial snow ) although, as it happens, there were still traces of the real thing outside.Director. Steve Dobson and Assistant Producer Laura Forshaw had the difficult job of putting together all the elements needed for a successful Pantomime and I am sure they must be pleased with the results?

The Hall Players are delighted that they are attracting new cast members and that younger new members of the chorus are experiencing the excitement of appearing on stage. This bodes well for the future of Theatre in this Community.There were many very good performances and all the cast worked well together and all looked like they were enjoying themselves.

The versatile Nigel Parsons as Chardonnay and Dominic Swarbrick as Lambrini used their considerable experience together with great comic timing as they brought out the humour as they cavorted around in a number of colourful and extravagant outfits and make-up. They had a good rapport with their “ mother “ Dame Dolly, played confidently by Gary Cross.

The outstanding performance, however was Tom Armitt, who bounded onto the stage with a brilliant interpretation of the self centred, arrogant, egotistical, Jean-Claude based on Gaston in the film. He swaggered around the stage with so much confidence and conviction, making all the girls swoon, apart from Belle, played sensitively by Becca Paterson. Tom has always given first class performances in many Productions I have seen, by The Hall Players.

Choreographers, Bridget Sanderson and Claire Swarbrick produced some lovely dance sequences appropriate to the story and these were well interpreted by the talented dancers. It was encouraging to hear a live band as I see many Productions who only use Piped music. Lighting, Sound and Special Effects, all added to the atmosphere of the action. Costumes, accessories and make-up were all impressive and appropriate properties played an important part in many of the scenes.

Judging by the applause from the audience The Hall Players have succeeded, once again. Congratulations to all involved. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit.

 

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