Beauty & The Beast

A script provided by NODA based on the ever popular Walt Disney classic is the backcloth to Pantomime season for this highly talented company. On occasions the pace seemed a little slow and a running time of around 80 minutes for the first half did not help.

Overall however this production had much to offer and in a most authentic French setting provided opportunity for extremely appealing performances of great humour and fun

In the role of ‘Belle’ Alisha James was delightful singing and dancing her way through the production with ease. She was very well matched with Glyn Diggett as ‘The Beast’ who played the role with strength of character and vocals rich in tone very easy on the ear. Wulstan Nixon was an ideal ‘Prince Louis’

As ‘Dame Jolly’ or should I say ‘ Madame Dolores Lily Chantilly Tres Jolie’ David Goode gave a most accomplished performance interacting with the audience who enjoyed the warmth of character and comedy that he was able to inject throughout the whole show. It is not possible to mention everyone in the show individually though there were some notable performances from Emily Jeffrey as “Countess Cruella” and keeping us all up-to date with the storyline, Kate Goode played extremely well the role of “Fairy Rose”. Not revealed until the curtain call though impressive as “GiGi The Horse” were Jane Barnes and Darryl Bradford-very clever characterisation most humorously portrayed.

Vibrant colourful costumes hugely brightened a stage featuring props and imaginative lighting. The snow scenes behind gauze and a swiftly arranged large dining table for The Beast and Belle provided just two of a number of innovative and effective sets. The production team deployed all their skills and experience to ensure for the most part seamless changes.

Pleasing choreography was the vehicle for performers to dance and sing chorus numbers in an organised manner making full use of the stage always delivering well-rehearsed routines. Of special note the six junior dancers as woodland fairies and the whole company “Dancing in the Street” to one of carefully selected musical pieces that were included and supported by a strong orchestra which at times seemed a little overpowering.

All in all a pantomime that delivered thoroughly enjoyable amusing entertainment enabling this Saturday matinee audience to leave the theatre with a real feel good factor.

Ian G Cox

Regional Representative - Worcestershire East (District 12)

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