Hook's Revenge

‘Tis the season to Boo, hiss, cheer and generally interact with the actors on stage! Yes it’s Panto time, and Stone Revellers delivered their annual Christmas offering in the form of ‘Hooks Revenge’. The original script written by Matthew Wright with the help of Susie Dickson with an array of songs delivered under the direction of the Musical Director James Duckworth.

Peter Pan is trying to organise the ‘Magic Box’ party that needs to take place for the magic to remain in Neverland. Peter enlists the help of Wendy and John who arrive with Nana, the nursemaid, and of course not everything goes as smoothly as it should. Captain Hook and his side kick Smee are still trying to get their own back on Peter Pan and Tinkerbell and are determined to disrupt the party plans. Of course good defeats bad, fairies defeat pirates, and Neverland keeps the magic.

Corny jokes, audience participation, slapstick comedy, a few clap along tunes, a woman dressed as a man and a man dressed as a woman and a liberal smattering of ad libs is surely all that is needed for this historic genre of theatre that is Pantomime, right? Unfortunately, in my opinion, no it’s not (Oh yes it is!). Pantomime is an art form and certain professionals make it look easy. The kings of supposed ad libs admit to them being well rehearsed and the timing of comedy moments are almost scientifically placed. In other words, it’s not as easy as it looks.

The cast of ‘Hooks Revenge’ made a valiant attempt with this production and the enthusiasm of the mainly young cast was apparent. In fact the youngest cast members appeared better rehearsed and secure in words and movement than the older ‘more experienced’ cast members.

Tinkerbell had attitude and glamour in abundance and the addition of the guitar for one song was great. Peter was confident and expressive, Wendy added a touch of sweetness and John…was far more mature than expected, but with a child-like characterisation…which was slightly odd. Nana, the dame, added a touch of colour and the expected toilet humour and innuendos. Captain Hook looked the part and had a good rapport with the audience and Smee. However I would suggest that not all of the instances where lines were forgotten were originally planned, or indeed rehearsed. Smee did a sterling job keeping it all together and provided the groans of appreciation at the sometimes terrible jokes.

Where I saw flaws, the audience thought it a hoot. Where I saw under-rehearsed, the audience laughed at the unplanned humour. It was then that I realised realized that the audience that night appreciated the community spirit, the festive atmosphere and the sheer fun of what they were watching. Maybe I shouldn’t be so picky?!

Well done Revellers for providing a light hearted take on the Peter Pan story and to all cast and crew thank you for your enthusiasm and love of performing.

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