Cinderella

Needham finally took to the stage again after a long break due to Covid.  A happy return although also a very sad occasion. They had suddenly lost their dear friend and a wonderful actor, both in Needham and Stowmarket, Frank Lea.  Frank had been married to Josephine Lea and she had for many years directed Needham’s Panto.  Frank was traditionally their dame and indeed had been cast in the role as Baroness for this production.  So this was also their fitting tribute to Frank.

The classic tale of Cinderella that we all know so well, but this one was set in Needham Market.  The curtains opened to a wonderfully painted backcloth of Needham’s High Street, with the familiar church in the centre of the village surrounded by the shops and houses. Indeed, I think I counted four back-cloths in total all beautifully painted including the forest, Hardup Hall and the Royal Ballroom.

The Fairy Godmother was the first on stage and Lucy Hughes looking lovely in her long gown, introduced us to the characters and set the scene. Buttons (Lesley Crompton) gave the role plenty of energy as she tried to get the children in the audience to interact with her.  However once they got the idea there was no stopping them and they certainly enjoyed themselves. Gemma Marshall played the poor downtrodden Cinders who was confident in the role and had a lovely solo. She really looked the part in her beautiful, beaded ball gown at the end. Gillian Hilder was Baron Hardup, looking very handsome in his formal black and red tailed suit. Prince Charming  (Sarah France) and Dandini  (Rebeckah Mitchell) worked well together as they traditionally swap roles.  The two ugly sisters  (Simon Hughes and Daniel Crompton) made a comical pair entertaining their local audience.  All credit to Andy France as The Baroness. He had vowed he would never appear on stage and did well to overcome his nerves, as he stood in for the role which Frank was to have played.  The chorus this year consisted of just four young ladies, all looking lovely in their matching costumes, with Tom Coomber as the Chamberlain. All the cast had put a lot of effort and hard work into their performances. They should be very proud of the parts they played. Congratulations to you all.

The music was supplied by Judy Cairns on piano, and Bob Pearson on percussion. Josephine Lea was the stage manager keeping things running smoothly. Lots of work had gone on behind the scenes to enhance the production and thanks must go to all them.  This was a  lovely traditional village Panto and the local audience were certainly appreciative.  Well done to the two directors, Jo and Sarah and to all the cast and crew.  Frank would have been proud of you all. 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.