Last Panto in Little Grimley

I think it was clear from the start that many of the audience were familiar with the ‘Little Grimley’ series of plays as there was a feeling of anticipation within the hall as we waited for the curtain to go up. We were not to be disappointed as it was to be another excellent comedy that was full of laughter.

As with their previous version a couple of years ago, the stage was simply set with a longish table surrounded by a few chairs with a few appropriate props. The four dysfunctional committee members of Little Grimley Amateur Dramatic Society are meeting to discuss their financial position, or lack of the finances, and what they propose to do about the situation. There is no money, no audiences at their previous productions and not much talent, although the members are not prepared to admit to the latter.

Trevor Roman (Gordon), Di Hiblen (Joyce), Chrissie Lester (Margaret) and John Covey (Bernard) were suitably matched and maintained their characters faithfully. Gordon has conceived a new concept to attract a wider and more adult audience to their shows. In a word, sex !! He appears to have already started writing the new script and is convinced that it will bring in the crowds in droves. Margaret is not so sure. In fact is quite certain that it will not work and doesn’t intend to remove her clothes in the off chance that it might be what the audience want. Joyce isn’t interested in the new script unless it is a musical with a good singing part for herself. Since her voice leaves a lot to be desired this idea is dead before it starts. She takes umbrage at Gordon’s criticism and starts to walk out but as the treasurer of the group she must be persuaded to stay at all cost. The same could be said of Bernard, the back stage dogsbody, set builder and general handy man who has little time for acting and no time for safety procedures.

This incredible foursome did a great job entertaining us for close on an hour before serving us up a lovely cream tea. My congratulations to Sandy Knight and the cast whose clear diction ensured the enthusiastic and supportive audience had an enjoyable afternoon.

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