Dracula, The Pantomime

The members of CAODS are always friendly and welcoming. On this occasion it was good to be introduced to Aimee Howard who was on her directorial debut. This was opening night and there were clearly some first night nerves but the show proved to be extremely entertaining. The CAODS members are known for their pantomimes and they always draw large audiences. There were around 80 at this performance, including some vocal children, all of which made for a good atmosphere. The matinees will hopefully be packed with children and their families.

The programme was predominantly black, as befits the nature of the world of vampires, with contrasting pink and purple on the front cover. It was good to see the new NODA logo on the cover. Information inside was clear with photographs of the cast and their own comments, which gave a nice personal touch.

The scenery and props were well thought out. The apron was used to great effect, housing shelves containing skulls and bottles of potions and books. There was also an open coffin. The backdrop of the Dame’s kitchen was colourful and detailed. The lighting throughout was excellent, likewise all sound effects. This year there was no live band and music was provided by backing tapes, which, although more than adequate, did perhaps make for a less lively atmosphere than one associated with traditional pantomimes. That said, there were no hiccoughs and the show kept up a reasonable pace. The costumes were up to the usual high standard, suitably comical, well made, cute and relevant as befits a pantomime remit.

The choreography was good throughout with the delightful youngsters demonstrating their skills right from the start when they performed, dressed as rats to ‘Rat in the House’. They were equally good as bats and Wombles and the cartwheels performed brought gasps from an appreciative audience. Highlights were the dancing to ‘Killer’ and ‘Bat out of Hell’ both demonstrating fantastic movements. Baby Jesse was adorable and likewise the youngster who came on with a newspaper shouting ‘extra’. As he exited the stage his line ‘I’m only an extra’ was superbly delivered and met with loud applause and laughter. The singing was good and vocals very clear although the cast seemed rather tentative at times. They just needed a bit more confidence because they were good. Hopefully they will gain this as the run progresses.

The cast were well chosen and despite the odd missed line, were very well rehearsed. Kate Chandler in her lead role as Duffy Van Helsing was confident and polished, leading the audience through her quest to utilise her Vampire Vanquisher to good effect. Duncan Greaves was a superb Dame Plasma Van Helsing. His timing, gestures and ability to engage with the audience were enhanced by his outrageous wigs and overall confidence. Both actors engaged well with the audience as did Tom Turner in the dual roles of Major Artery and Dracula. He had the requisite brooding presence plus a good rapport with  the audience particularly with a child  who constantly heckled the evil vampire as he swept across the stage in his cloak and flowing hair. Tom’s rendition of ‘Thriller’ was a highlight, ably enhanced by the dancers, as previously mentioned. The hapless pair from the local constabulary, Inspector Ventricle, played by Val Michalski and PC Platelet gained some laughs with their interpretation of ‘Allo Allo’ whilst heading for France. Becky Langridge, in her role as the police constable was hilarious with her shuffled walking and squeaky voice. Georgie Mackett (Dr Bearer) and Maddie Cox (Fred Corpuscle) were both convincing and performed well. Karl Whitmore was freed from an upright coffin which must have been rather claustrophobic. As Professor Van Helsing, he demonstrated his versatility yet again. His infectious energy is a bonus to any show. Lexi Skeldon-Downer not only gave a creditable performance but also gave us the pleasure of seeing her young son on stage. A cameo from Daphne Brown, keeping stock still until required to speak as Alexa, was clever and innovative. Martin Deane also had a small role as Marquis de Sad which he performed well.

The script was good with plenty of good and corny jokes which were equally thoroughly enjoyed by an appreciative audience.

Overall this was a very good production which was refreshing, particularly as it was slightly different from the usual pantomime with quite a large amount of dialogue and less slapstick.  Very good interpretation and use of imagination had been utilised to really entertain. It is no mean feat to direct a complex production involving, adults, children, music, dancing and audience participation. Congratulations to Aimee. This was a winner and full credit must be given to everyone concerned.

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