Blue Beard

A bold move to choose something different from the norm with Blue Beard written by Paul Reakes. To go for something that’s not one of the classics has become a trademark of the Players and makes a visit to the show that much more interesting.

The sets and costumes were outstanding, complete with a chandelier in the Masked Ball scene! (This particular scene was quite an achievement on such a small and restricted stage)

Baron Blue Beard (Alan Hulse) looked great and sang well, and had a commanding menacing persona, although maybe a few too many prompts.

Chris Silverthorne as Mr Rockbottom did a super job along with a great accent.

Flora Rockbottom (Anya Hawtin) and Robin Reliant (Anna Constable) made a wonderful couple and sang with feeling, as for Fetch(David Merrifield) his facial expressions were superb along with Carrie (Jo McKenzie) who completed the comedy duo with ease.

Marie (Tracey Salter) as the French maid, (I shall only say this once) had it all with her French accent and general coquettishness.

Mrs Shivers (Doreen Kociuba) as the housekeeper looked like something out of the Addams Family with her white face and slow creepy walk, a joy to watch! Lurkin (Judith Constable) made a great and repulsive side kick to Blue Beard and the makeup and hunch back were brilliant, a difficult role to play but performed with sensitivity, and timing that was spot on.

Mrs Butcher, Mad Nun, and Florrie, were all good performances.

The Dame role, Ruby Rockbottom (Sue Simpson) who was practically on stage the whole time, sang wonderfully well and acted the part with distinction, her moves were good along with her timing and she gave it the light and shade required for this important character role.

The Chorus sang very well indeed, all acting and responding to what was going on. The children gave their all, especially in the Castle kitchen scene with exuberant characterisation and clear diction. These are the future for the Players. Hang on to them!

This was a Panto that Colaton Raleigh Players can be justly proud of, and many congratulations to Chrissie Brimacombe, Director and MD, John Davies who must have put all their energy into making Blue Beard a success.

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