BIG DICK WHITTINGTON

I like Tom Whalley scripts, as they straddle the family/adult divide nicely and have some good jokes.

A well put-together show from the Director, with some nice touches that were noticed and appreciated.  Following the fire evacuation at dress rehearsal, I loved the “pyros” that heralded the appearance of the Fairy!

Musically very good, different music choices that were well-sung, with some good harmonies.  Alice and Dick’s duets were particularly pleasing, well-sung lovely harmonies.  The opening was energetic, but a little long!  I liked Fairy and Pussy’s rendition of Bad Day.

Technically good, quick scene changes, minimum blackouts, sound was mostly good, and lighting, although a relatively simple, suited the feel of the show.

Costumes were mostly good and suited the characters.  Choreography was very good throughout, fairly simple, but well rehearsed and within the capabilities of the cast.

Nathan Marshall (Dick) was dressed as a female principal boy would have been attired, which worked well for me – he sang well, and I enjoyed his take on the role.

Allanah Rogers (Alice) was the epitome of the part, with a very saucy side – well done.

Nico Whitney-Bamford (Dame) created a different looking persona, with his blue beard, which added a perspective to the character I was not expecting.  However it worked well, and Nico gave the Dame a slightly more laid-back quality.

Sophie Singleton-Sells (Idle Jack) gave the lad a nice dim-witted portrayal, with some good asides and humour.

Chloe Whitney-Bamford (Pussy) was a very glamorous version of the cat, which worked well for me, I would have liked a tail to just add to the feline quality which was acted out nicely.

Debbie Cavanagh (Fairy Big Bells) showed her experience in the role, looking sort of fairy-like, but very down to earth!

Laurence Sims (King Rat) was suitably evil, and sang well, but thought at times he was a little soft in his execution.

It was good to see Joshua Thompson in a very camp cameo role – there is always a surprise addition to Griffins pantos, and this was a very good and unexpected one!

The ensemble of Sam Clark, Michelle Garufi, Tanisha Santiago, Luke Walsh and Vicky Wells were very energetic and integrated well in all the scenes.

Overall a fun production that I enjoyed, and my continued thanks to The Griffin Players for their hospitality.

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