Hansel and Gretel
Information
- Date
- 18th January 2025
- Society
- St Giles with St Mary's Panto Theatre Society
- Venue
- Pontefract Town Hall
- Type of Production
- Pantomime
- Director
- Jo Sykes
- Musical Director
- Marley Watson
- Choreographer
- Katie Appleton, Katy Chadwick, Mel Millard, Rachel Perry and Jane Skelton
- Producer
- Jo Sykes
- Written By
- Alan P Frayn
A packed house buzzed with anticipation as the curtain rose on St Giles with St Mary’s Pantomime Society’s production of Hansel and Gretel. The energy was palpable, and the opening number, Another Openin', Another Show, set the tone for a joyous evening, with the audience clapping along enthusiastically.
The story began in the charmingly named village of Muncheon Luncheon, where we met Hansel (Seth Empsall) and Gretel (Sophia-Mae Ward). Both young performers shone brightly, showcasing impressive stage presence, voice projection, and a natural chemistry that brought their sibling bond to life. Seth’s comic timing was impeccable, while Sophia-Mae exuded confidence and poise. Though I didn’t see alternate Gretel, Lily Dobson, I’ve no doubt she brought equal charm to the role.
Rod Walker’s Fritz, the conflicted father of Hansel and Gretel, delivered a conflicted performance, wrestling with his conscience as he faced the manipulation of his wife, Hildegard, played with biting callousness by Sally Empsall. Vince Empsall’s Peggy Pumpernickel, the quintessential panto Dame, dazzled with wit, audience interaction, and ad-libbing prowess, delighting young and old alike.
A delightful twist on tradition saw Peggy’s daughters, Heather (Chloe Knox) and Heidi (Georgea Daskalaki), bring distinct personalities to the stage. Georgea’s Heidi, the “village idiot,” burst with energy and enthusiasm, and with further focus on audience interaction, she is set for great things. Chloe’s Heather, the principal girl, brought calm elegance to the role, creating a sweet, believable romance with Prince Johann (Katy Chadwick). Their duet, Always Remember Us This Way, was a highlight, showcasing beautiful harmonies and heartfelt emotion. Katy Chadwick’s Prince Johann embodied the confidence and charm of a principal boy with ease, a testament to her growing talent.
Basil and Nutmeg (Will Proctor and Katie Holland) added humour and energy to their roles as comic sidekicks. Though some lines were rushed, their effort and enthusiasm were commendable, and they are clearly on their way to developing their skills in these types of roles.
Every panto needs its good versus evil dynamic, and Hansel and Gretel delivered it with gusto. Katie Appleton’s Fairy Bluebell navigated the rhyming dialogue with grace and determination, while Jo Sykes’ Nightshade oozed menace and arrogance, perfectly balancing menace with humour as her wicked plans unravelled.
The musical numbers, chosen thoughtfully for the cast, were brought to life by a talented live band under the capable direction of Marley Watson in his first stint as Musical Director. The ensemble, a mix of ages and experience, felt like a true theatrical family. From the adorable Sunbeams dressed as animals in Nature Boy to the juniors’ enchanting bird dance, every performer radiated joy and commitment.
A standing ovation goes to the costume team for their vibrant, character-appropriate designs that added a visual feast to the production. Choreography by Katie Appleton, Katy Chadwick, Mel Millard, Rachel Perry, and Jane Skelton was clean, accessible, and effective, with every participant shining in their moments on stage. With continued refinement of principal numbers to enhance storytelling through movement, the society can elevate their already strong choreographic foundation.
Congratulations to Jo Sykes (Producer), Marley Watson (MD), and the entire team for delivering a heartwarming, community-driven production. Hansel and Gretel was a joyful showcase of talent, dedication, and the magic of panto. Bravo!
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