Beauty and the Beast - Pantomime

It was a real joy to see the auditorium packed to capacity for this production of Beauty and the Beast written by Gordon Jay. The large cast of nigh on 50 youngsters, Academy, Junior Chorus and Senior Chorus ranging from 5 years to 18 years of age, thoroughly entertained us from start to finish. Their performances were overflowing with enthusiasm and I must congratulate everyone concerned on a slick, vibrant production which flowed from start to finish.

The role of Bella (Beauty) was in the capable hands of Alexa Roberts whose singing was a sheer delight, whilst Sarah McEwan as Monsieur Duval, gave us a confident performance as Bella’s father. Sophie Ehlke-West portrayed a convincing Prince Maurice (The Beast), the hero of the piece, and was attended by his Butler, Francois played by Millie Thomas.

Danielle Gorle just revelled in her role as the Wicked Queen Velma, and one could tell she loved all the ‘hisses’ and ‘boos’ she received from the delighted audience, this was a very creditable performance.

The characterisation of Mrs Lettice Stewpot (Her Cook and Housekeeper) was a huge role, and Theo Salisbury surpassed all expectation. From his first entrance, Theo had the audience in the palm of his hand with his onstage antics and he delighted them from start to finish. Each entrance, he was dressed in a different outfit and wig which the audience reacted to. A brilliant performance for his final production with the company.      

Maisy Hendry as Lucy Stewpot, (Personal Maid to Bella) was perfectly cast. She oozed  personality, never forgetting to water the plant each time she entered, which grew like a beanstalk. Dylan Bourne fully justified his casting as Claud Bottom, the Queen’s Handyman. Even though I selected a seat towards the back of the auditorium, all minor roles were well delivered and one could hear every word.

The large Chorus of Guardsmen, Courtiers, Villagers and Servants were well rehearsed and the music selected was appropriate. There were some eye-catching Costumes in this production and the hard working Stage Crew made swift scene changes.

Don’t Stop Me Now was a highlight in the closing moments and personally I cannot see anything stopping this talented group going from strength to strength in the future.

Thank you once again Kaleidoscope for your invitation and Congratulations everyone.

This is the opinion of the Reviewer.

 

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