CAMELOT

A great challenge to emulate this story through the medium of Pantomime, but Ben Crocker’s Camelot, the Panto had all the correct ingredients needed for a jolly good afternoon’s entertainment. Much thought had been given regarding the casting of the show and this certainly paid off with many creditable characterisations in this great story.

The Prologue revealed the wicked Morgan Le Fay whose hate for Camelot brought yet another villainous, heinous, performance, expertly portrayed to the limit by Susan Thompson. Will Haydock as Valerin the Vicious, King of Tanglewood, and desperate to win the hand of Guinevere by fair means or foul, pulled out all the stops. He gained many laughs from the audience, and a load of bruises when being ‘pushed’ around the stage by his bossy Mum, Fliss Downes, who gave us a domineering performance.

The opening number made us sit up and take note. Each one of the cast and chorus were smiling, and gave the audience that feel good factor from the start.

I loved the portrayal of Laughalot the Jester – Steve Davies, who had the audience in the palm of his hand from his first entrance. The audience responded well to his ‘Help Me, Help Me’ with ‘Be Bold and Brave’ throughout the performance, and we certainly did ‘laugh a lot’. Valuable contributions to the story and good interpretations of Prince Arthur and Guenivere from Samuel Thompson and Ella Duffy respectively. They blended well together and fully justified their selection as Hero and Heroine. Emma Winterbottom was just perfect in the role Nell, singing was beautiful. Rhianna Goodwin bounced on and off the stage as a very convincing Teddy, whilst Will Cawdell added that hint of grandeur to his performance as King Uther. Brilliant performance from Mike Probert as Marlon, whose other half was invisible, thus giving Mike, ‘carte blanche’ which resulted in a convincing characterisation of this important role. There was a solid contribution from Finn Hibbert in the role of Merlin – great singing - with Sam Lawson as Young Merlin and Seth Thompson as Very Young Merlin, all getting a great reception from the audience.

Jonathan Johnston gave a faultless interpretation of Connie Clatterbottom, the Royal Nurse. There are times when impromptu ad libs just don’t fit the bill, but Jonathan was at the top of his game in this role. His prancing round the auditorium delighted the audience – how he managed it wearing those fantastic heels I’ll never know, and all his cavorting on stage in his many outfits and wigs, was spot on for this character. Another feather in his cap! Minor roles were well executed by Beth Morgan – Nilrem, Abi Moss – Dave the Snake and Karen Jones as Talking Clock and Bishop.

The chorus worked hard with every member focused on their tasks. Choreography was innovative and well thought out, particularly the evil sisters at the opening of Act 2 which was a highlight. Good work from stage crew, lighting, sound and band. Costumes and wigs were colourful and appropriate for each scene. The sets were once again a delight, with much detail paid to perspective in their design .This great entertainment was much appreciated by the audience by the accolade the company received.

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