Jack and the Beanstalk

This was a very classy pantomime with a clever script by my favourite pantomime writer, Alan P Frayn and directed by the very talented, Michael Kirkby. All the key elements that bring a pantomime to life were there - an excellent principal cast and strong ensemble with good mix of modern and not-so-modern songs.

With a massive flash, the Witch Piccalilli, played with strength and experience by Kazia Gamble, made her first entrance, only to be thwarted by Fairy Sugardust, prettily played by Kaly Nicholson. Laura Susan Evers made a fine and versatile Jack, followed on by her 'bro', Simple Simon, played with great comic timing by Jeff Holt. Daisy Baum played a very sweet Princess Charlotte. I thought that hers and Jack's duets were beautifully sung with much sincerity. Cameron Sherry was another evil character, Rancid, who played his role in a typical Shakespearean manner. Steven Holt, as the Dame, Dotty Dimple, gave a first class performance - his costumes, makeup and stage presence were spot-on as always, as was his rapport with the audience, lovable from the first entrance. Scarper (Jason Reynolds) and Snatchett (Lee Sharratt) made very funny Brokers Men, along with King Crumble (Danny Hayes), Queen Apricot (Louise Blackburn) with their major domo, Humphrey, played by Louise Bullock. The Chorus and Village Children gave well-rehearsed and confident performances with plenty of enthusiasm!

I just have to mention the two things that stood out for me - Buttermilk, the cow, worked byJulie Davis and Melanie Harris, with very well-co-ordinated movements, was immediately loved by the audience. The Giant, known also as Buster Gut-Bucket, was an amazing huge Puppet, provided by Imagine Theatre Ltd. My heart went out to Simon Phillips, inside this claustrophobic costume, but his movements were so good. Cameron Sherry made the most of the distorted voice.

All these elements were directed with professionalisim and style by Michael Kirkby - I have to say that the Baking scene, with the Dame, the King and Simon, was one of the best I have seen - it had me crying with laughter! I also loved the choice of music; David Hann, the Musical Director had rehearsed the company well, as always. He also played keyboards together with Allan Farrell and Joel Griffin, with Neil Graham on drums.

Morley have an excellent team behind the scenes and I felt that this year they had excelled themselves in all areas - stage management, sets, lighting, sound, props, costumes and front-of-house - nothing had been overlooked and this not only helps the cast on-stage, but makes for a great atmosphere in the audience. The night I attended was full of Brownies, Cubs and Scouts, as well as adults - they all really enjoyed themselves, as I did!

Well done to all of you!

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.