In The Beginning

 

And what beginning!  As the curtain opened the cast, each one of whom was holding a coloured ball the size of which varied between that of a cricket ball and a football, slowly circles around each other to suggest how the planets were formed to become part of our galaxy.  Hypnotic and colourful, a truly splendid start to the evening’s entertainment.

Ross Forde was the fluent interviewer who guided us through the ensuing drama, whilst at the same time talking to Martin Jones playing Mr G. (God, maybe?).

There was as gentle Adam, the well-known Anthony Beaumont and a powerful, Amazonian Eve – Immie Sivell – who banged a tambourine with such gusto that she would surely have made mincemeat of the serpent.  (She probably already had, since he did no appear!).

There was even a Brian Cox, although I’m not quite certain which of the cast he was since names on stage, as in real life, are never mentioned unless one is speaking about them or calling or berating them.

At some point too, each member of the enthusiastic cast was presented in turn to the delighted audience, with salutes and waves from the men and boys and time-honoured posterior wiggles from most of the ladies.

In Act 2 after many aeons had passed, there followed another mesmerising scene to rival that of the planets.  This time it consisted of slow hand clapping that gradually increased in  intensity, finally erupting into a crescendo of frenzied noise and stomping by the whole cast.  It was one of the most powerful scenes I have ever witnessed on stage and it was a real tribute to Lottie Laidler, who devised and choreographed this spectacular show-stopper.

By the end of the evening’s entertainment we finally caught up with today.  The enraptured audience had had a trip through time, one which was a great credit to everyone and especially to all those dedicated helpers who, as always, ensured that the proceedings went smoothly and that the 35 stars of the show were presented at their very best.

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