From Lockdown to Limelight

From the eerie atmosphere created by an unlit stage and black costumes conveying the darkness of Covid times through to a light and colourful second half, the children take the audience on a journey of hope. Taking the structure of a pantomime with a good fairy, a demon, a panto dame and her likeable son, the children create a scenario of lockdown with occupations of reading, gardening, painting and cooking interspersed with political and topical jokes and references. With poignant songs like ‘When Will my Life Begin’ and ones of light and hope like ‘You will be Found’ in costumes all in symbolic white, we are all lifted up. The cast singing was strong and clear, bursting with energy and their movements were assured and lively. Dame Ding a Ling a Doorbell was played in serious mien and deep voice by Lara Hain but with outrageous costumes and wigs. In contrast Rachel Higgins as her son Silly Billy gave us a cheery chappie with attitude. Together their “baking” scene cracked open the gloom and heralded what was to come. Cody Rushford gave us a wonderfully evil Demon Coron - note the play on words - whose nasty laugh and cruel intentions were well portrayed. Just as wonderful was her red costume with spikes for epaulettes, resonant of the virus and a hat with flames. In a smaller part Valerie Wyzgowski was convincing as Actor. Well voiced soloists Isla McIntosh, Carice Baillie and Sophie Gilland sang with power and emotion. The dancers Caitlin Lee and Suzanna Strang showed talent, grace and athleticism in their solo acts. With two long years without performances, it is inevitable that there has been a turnover of youngsters. However the new and enthusiastic youngsters showed that talent is there.

This was an imaginative production devised to put into the limelight the youngsters’ abilities in singing and dance while reflecting on all our recent experiences. The tartan touches at the end rounded it all off. Entertainment is alive and well. Congratulations to all involved.

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