CINDERELLA

I have to admit (shamefully !) that I had never been to The Maltings Arts Centre in Berwick until my visit yesterday. What a delightful facility it is. I hope to explore it more, given time and the opportunity. I was also interested to hear of its intended future plans from Spittal V G Stage Manager Kevin. It is my fond hope it all comes together.

A packed house were greeted by a lovely gauze show-cloth which was beautifully utilised in the prologue. We were all then treated to a super traditional family pantomime with superb live music, excellent direction and choreography, spectacular sets and costumes with colour, sparkle and pizazz. A lovely introduction to Spittal Variety Group, which is an extremely talented organisation.

There were some exceptionally good performances in this best-known of panto tales... the love interest beautifully played and sung by Emma Beveridge in the title role of Cinderella and Georgia Young as Prince Charming. Well supported by the lovely Hannah Bass as Dandini. Jonathan Scott was a very funny Buttons who kept us on our toes whenever someone approached his furry friend Bunny, and his antics lasted all afternoon!. I enjoyed the Ugly Sisters duo of Matthew McIver-Scott as Gertrude and Anton Bradbury as Grizelda. Their comedy and the way they ‘fed’ off one another was first class. You’d think they had done this for much longer than their youthful ages would testify. Lovely Diane Renner was our Fairy Godmother, giving a magical performance. Bodget and Leggett the hapless comedy duo played by Callum Harley and Morgan Flannigan were also very funny and gave us lots of belly laughs. Their slapstick scene was good and well-rehearsed, as these scenes need to be. Ian Little as Baron Hardup and Jennifer Greenwood as his extravagant wife the Baroness gave some sterling support, as did Susan Whyte as Lord Chamberlain.

A large and colourful chorus and dancers completed the cast with some fabulous singing and super movement, choreographed by The Darcys. A pleasure to watch and listen to. I also have to give special mention to the lady rapper in the Ball Scene… very accomplished… well done !. Also a big shout-out to the fine guitar playing by our MD Aubrey. Fabulous...

The colourful backcloths and excellent scenery by Border Studio and stage props by Brian Mole, Jennifer Wood and the Cast were very well managed by Kevin Knox and his crew; seamlessly and effortlessly done. Furthermore, a big shout-out to the technical team from The Maltings and SVG & Mark Inglis for superb lighting and sound effects which contributed to the success of this show. Colourful and well thought out costumes by Pamela Thompson and Utopia Costumes Ltd were also a large contributory factor; so well done to the whole team for their efforts.

The Production Team, led by Director John Mabon, with Aubrey Sanderson; Musical Director and Producer Susan Whyte are to be heartily congratulated on a fine production.

I had a really enjoyable afternoon in one of the most comfortable seats I have ever experienced. Thank you for the invitation, the reception and the hospitality. Here’s to 2024.

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