Dick Whittington

This was a new pantomime, the first written by Carol Green, a member of the society.  The story followed the original Pantomime theme and was enthusiastically played by the Company and received by the audience.

There were some old favourites taking part Christopher Stewart (Sarah the cook),  Chris gets more outlandish and glamorous with his costumes, in particular shoes, year by year and his make-up is just overdone perfection.  His performance however is always immaculate with excellent diction, his innuendos beautifully timed and his facial expressions perfect for the moment.  He was ably assisted by his stage son Charlie Vincent (Idle Jack) who interacts well with the audience, permanently acts the fool but never seems to over-do it.  Charlie too is growing in his abilities year by year and is a great asset to the Society.  Debbie Cross (Dick Whittington) was a delightful principal boy with her excellent diction both spoken and sung and had a perfect foil with a delightful cat played by Tracey Williams.  

King Rat (Mikey May) in an excellent costume, was suitably horrible but outwitted and overcome by the whiles of Fairy Bowbells (Rita Cook).

The costumes (Carol North) were very good, particularly I noticed the level hems of the chorus circular skirts – too often allowed to dip and look untidy, the blouses and jackets too fitted well and looked cared for.  The closing scene with the chorus dressed as Pearly Queens was a lovely sight. Well done Carol, hopefully the NODA Summer School Course on Costumes was a help to you.  Props, lighting and sound were all balanced and good.  I particularly enjoyed Idle Jack’s playing with the follow spot to see who would win!!.

The whole evening was well accompanied by the small band.

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