Jack and the Beanstalk

This was my first pantomime of the 2016 season and there was a welcoming buzz in the Digswell Village Hall.

I am always amazed at what is achieved on this tiny stage, as the company is of a fair number, but they always aim to give their community a great afternoon's entertainment.

This year's panto gave the cast plenty to do - it was a traditional panto, with a fair smattering of old and new jokes, with well-known songs also old and new.

The entire cast worked very hard, with enthusiasm, much to the delight of an audience of mixed ages (I think the adults were more vocal than the children!)

The well-loved story of poor Jack, (Maddie Gouldstone), his over the top mother, (Pip Gray), a very simple Jethro, (Kevin Rayment), and pretty Princess, (Esther Bishop), was put across to the audience very well - (and we mustn't forget the cow Buttercup!!) Dialogue was clear and vocals had musicality and were well chosen.

The Director and Musical Director had drilled their performers well, helped by David Meek at the piano and Daniel Bishop on base guitar.

I was very impressed with the growing beanstalk, the oversized furniture in the giant’s kitchen and of course the giant himself. Clever thinking on the part of sets and props!!

As always, a lot of hard work had gone into the costumes and make-up - it is always a pleasure if the cast is well dressed, especially in panto, and helps to give that extra magic for children.

I would like to make a special mention of the children in the chorus and those taking smaller parts.  These youngsters were well disciplined and not once did I detect a lack of concentration on their part. Footwork was good and singing was tuneful with plenty of smiling faces.

Some of the principals were a little tentative in their performances but I put this down to the fact that it was their first matinee - I'm sure by the end of the week, all inhibitions were laid aside.

Comedy is the hardest element to get right, it just needs an audience who laughs in all the right places and helps the cast along. Audience participation was good and we had lots of fun.

I do hope the rest of the week went successfully for this friendly group, they really deserved it.

Well done to all concerned and thank you for your hospitality.

Happy New Year to you all

Vicki Avery 

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