Dick Whittington

Our newest members to NODA North District 3 are based in the fabulous Beamish, Living Museum of the North, performing in the 1950’s Village Hall and keeping their productions in a 1950’s style using inspiration from the museum’s collections. The membership is made up of staff and volunteers who work across the museum, including some who have never performed before. Writer and member Porle had put together a script of Dick Whittington telling of his destiny to become Lord Mayor of Beamish which included all the elements of the traditional story.

The set was perfect for the period and venue with hand painted backdrops and props full of colour and perspective, great work by Casey and Angela. The small stage was put to full use as was the floor area in front of the stage bringing the action right into the audience.

Adelaide took the lead as “Dick” confidently delivering her lines, embracing the opportunity for the occasional traditional thigh slap and there was good old fashioned instant panto romance with “Alice” sweetly portrayed by Michelle. Alex as “Dame Dotty” was immaculately dressed (loved the boots) with great makeup and had fun interacting with the audience and cast; I really enjoyed the fish battering scene and the swimming sequence. “Tommy” the cat was to have been played by Joan who unfortunately wasn’t able to perform but the role was covered by Emma who did a super job as the the fun companion. “King Rat” and his side kicks “Cannit” and “Winnit” were played by Tommy, Peter and Judith, what great character portrayal and good clear delivery. Tony had just the right amount of menace without terrifying the little ones. King Rat also had some Ratling helpers Pauline and Derek (also Layla at some performances), they added a bit of mischief wandering through the audience, I loved them. The “Good Fairy” confidently played by Susan, complete with fabulous Angel of the North wings, lit up the stage with every entrance and kept “Dick” on track, we enjoyed singing along with her “Blaydon Races”.

There was a lot of story content to fit into an hour, with not a line dropped, and plenty of opportunity for audience participation. It was a really nice touch for Lisa to get the children in the audience involved in learning a march with the rats which they thoroughly enjoyed.

Last but not least I must mention the costumes, they were absolutely beautiful, bespoke designs and the detail didn’t go unnoticed especially the Dame’s headwear and the rat costumes, even the dust coats of the stage crew, what an absolute cherry on top of the panto cake.

Congratulations to everyone involved on stage and behind the scenes, you brought joy whist maintaining the tradition of the 1950s style. Thank you for making us so welcome and I look forward to your future productions.

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