Humpty Dumpty

Golborne St Thomas’ Amateur Dramatic & Operatic Society returned with their annual pantomime. This year’s offering was Humpty Dumpty. Directed by Keith Wilde, assisted by Georgia Roe, this was a traditional pantomime. The stage was utilised well throughout, with lots of varied entrances including through the auditorium. There were some opening night jitters with slow entrances and some prompts given. Pantomime gives you the opportunity to play up to these, as Keith did on numerous occasions in his role as Martha. The backcloths used looked impressive, as were the costumes, particularly Martha’s. Some of the scene changes were a little noisy.

The choreography (Bethan Littlewood) catered for all abilities. Everyone knew what they were doing, no matter the age or ability. The ballet sequence at the end of Act 1 was beautifully done.

The band, consisting of Mark Gerrard (Musical Director), Charlie Gerrard and Harry Gerrard, played well throughout. Most of the cast seemed well rehearsed with the songs.

The lighting was very good throughout. The sound balance between the band and the performers could be improved upon. The band were a bit too loud, especially in the duets.

Keith Wilde played the role of Martha, the dame, and was great in the role. He had a fantastic rapport with the cast, especially Jessica, and the audience. The ad-libs, both on stage and to the audience, were very funny.

Jessica Payne as the titular Humpty Dumpty had great energy on stage. Excellent stage presence and great characterisation. Jessica committed to leading chorus numbers with lots of energy and a good voice.

Jack Gerrard gave us a confident portrayal as Prince Florian. He really looked the part. Jack was a bit quiet at times, but had a good voice, especially in his duets with Amelia.

Bernard Holding provided good support as King Eggbert. Although a bit tentative with lines, Bernard gave a good performance with great characterisation.

Amelia Mills was the perfect pantomime princess. Great stage presence, and a good, strong singing voice which was crystal clear. Well done!

Ayrton Wickstead as the Lord Chamberlain provided good comic support. Excellent diction throughout.

Susan Halton and Emma Rothwell, playing the comedy double act Cliff and Clopp, were good. They worked well together throughout, providing good slapstick moments.

Michelle Hughes, as Pestilence, played the typical panto villain well; getting plenty of boos from the audience. She had a good stage presence.

Ruby Glavin as Zola, impressed with her singing voice. A confident portrayal of this character.

Suranne Hesketh, Hannah Valente, Katie Reed-Rogers, Kerrick Mills and Bethan Littlewood provided good support in their named roles.

The chorus were involved throughout, providing good reactions to what was happening on stage. You all seemed confident and happy on stage – well done! A special mention to Macaulay Pilling for his scene with Bernard – great comic timing!

On the whole, this was a good pantomime. The sense of community both on and off stage was tangible.

Thank you Golborne STADOS for your kind hospitality, and wish you all the luck in the world for your next production.

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