Happily Never After

This original panto script crafted in house by the shows director and chairman for Stage Squad, Sean Kennedy, was a joy, it’s carnal themes were relished on and off the stage radiating a strong essence of merriment in the intimate studio space.

‘Happily Never After’ is a quirky idea for a panto, in a nutshell, we have a melange of fairy tale heroines waiting (in prison) to be rescued by their possy of Princes, a narrative which had evidently been tailored to the strengths and abilities of the cast, a virtuous advantage for any society to possess such a skill.

Generic stage craft and techniques were not always adhered to by some members of the company, however, the joy for performing was evident from the masses with clear and precise characterisations offering a raw but enjoyable act. The cosy and restricting performance space was resourcefully adapted for each scene and didn’t prevent the show moving with fluidity with its large cast who utilised the space effectively, without it seeming as awkward as it must be.

We got an impressive performance from Dawn Vago as Belle End, an easy comic who smacked us with some epic vocals too. The throng of Princesses each offered copious fun and uncouth gaiety – aptly named Goldicocks, Massive Mermaid, Tinderella, Sleeping Rough, Off White and the previously mentioned Belle End gives you a flavour of the script’s tone! 

Fairy Mother Fu*ker, played by Abbi Dalzeil, was especially amusing with her hazy disposition and grounded attitude, an agreeable combination for a well-formed portrayal. The six identical-ish Prince Charming’s were a hoot, each as brilliantly dim as the next. 

The production was well supported by the technical department with well-timed sound effects and a complimentary lighting design.

Choreography was a pleasure as usual thanks to Jennie Kennedy who worked with the varied abilities of the company to her advantage, with neat and visually pleasing sequences. 

Without meaning to reflect negatively to any of the productions … the raffle is a part of the evening I always look forward to when visiting Stage Squad. Following suit, Danni Eastwood, keeping in character as prince Charming (this time with Zoe Ball as Prince Charming too) announced the winners and handed out the raffle prizes making it feel like part of the show, as an adlibbed audience participation scene. This is absolutely to be taken as a compliment and not in a condescending way, I see endless raffles on my rounds and a Stage Squad raffle is by far the most entertaining.

Many thanks, Stage Squad! …A company who know what their audience want and know how to give it to them whilst clearly having a blast doing so! Long may it continue!   

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