Beauty and the Beast

The society pulled out all the stops with this show; it was certainly one of the best I have seen of theirs for a while, with the whole production representing the magic of pantomime. Filled with all the traditional panto set pieces, the UV scene and slapstick to name but a few, this NODA Ron Hall script, while keeping the original story line, adds weight to the comical frivolity associated with pantomime. Sets were accomplished and colourful along with an excellent wardrobe, the dame’s costumes and finale feast of emerald and gold were particularly spectacular.

Cast weaved their magic, with plenty of opportunity for the chorus and dancers to shine even though first night nerves were obvious with some chorus members, whose faces were etched with looks of serious concentration rather than that desired ‘happy smile’! No doubt this changed as the week progressed! The young dancers brought poignancy to the production with their adept ballet sequences. The old adage “you can have too much of a good thing” did ring true in a few of the scenes and dances, particularly in act 1, it’s wise to leave the audience wanting more!

Principals took full control of the action with Alphonse, Esmerelda and Madame Fifi putting their stamp on the production, building wonderful interaction with the audience and maintaining a cracking pace. No panto is complete without a baddie, Grottilda the enchantress was the perfect demon, acting with just enough malice to create the essential boos and hisses without causing nightmares for the younger members of the audience. Belle brought confidence to the role, making one half of a delightful couple, matched with her prince. The director’s imagination and sense of fun brought the spirit of this pantomime alive, helping to bring an excellent evening’s entertainment to the stage, lucky audience!

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