Beauty and the Beast

On my arrival at the venue for this show some 30 minutes prior to curtain-up there was already a long queue of excited youngsters with their parents, awaiting admission to the hall to watch the annual pantomime performed by members of the Crowland Amateur Dramatic Society (CADS). Since its formation 40 years ago this society has established a reputation for delivering a production that is highly regarded and well appreciated by audiences that enjoy traditional story lines which include slightly derogatory references to surrounding villages and some local characters.

 One of the distinctive features of a CADS panto is the substantial number of children recruited to become members of the chorus and the very significant contributions they make in performing the songs and dances which are so much appreciated by audiences, as was the case in this production. The time and efforts of the musical director and choreographer invested in these young people certainly paid dividends.

The principals were well cast with John Martin playing Claude, the hapless father of gentle, caring daughter Belle, played by Dilara Green, and Smelle, the “large, loud – I’m coming to get you” daughter played by John Munton. Charlotte Cureton played the arrogant Prince with Rachel Cross as Pierre, the loyal manservant. As a result of the Prince’s unkind behaviour, he was turned into a Beast, effectively played by Cheryl Doyle. Carla Cole played Carlos, a lad with an inflated ego and a desire to marry Belle, which wasn’t going to happen, while Ellen Woodbridge-Young played Chico, a friend and supporter of Carlos.  Bad fairy Bovver Boots (Jo Strickland) did battle with Goody Two Shoes (Jayne Munton) in attempts to prove whose magic was most influential. Rebecca Williams certainly demonstrated her authority as the Town Crier. Jonty Abraham and Maddie Hill, despite having limited vision, managed to propel Dobbin the panto horse about the stage without accident which was very important considering the magic which ends this most interesting pantomime.

This was a lively and entertaining show very much enjoyed by the audience and actors. Well done all who were involved in this wonderful team effort.  

 

 

 

 

 

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