Once Upon A Time In Pantoland

Macclesfield Majestic Theatre Group's ‘Once Upon A Time In Pantoland’ proves they're not lost in the woods, in fact, they've bravely ventured off the beaten path with a script that's (surprisingly, to me) proving immensely popular in the North West this season. Naturally, it’s pertinent to draw inspiration from the industry giants – it would be unwise not to delve into their creative pursuits for inspiration and insight, to ensure what we’re doing is keeping up with trends. In the wake of the success of Crossroads' flagship production ‘Panto At The Palladium’ a couple of years ago, I get a whiff of suspicion this venture influenced so many groups to adopt a sort of mash-up panto script.  I’d consider it a very brave and interesting experiment as it undoubtedly tests the loyalty of any group’s audience and membership when taking this risk, thankfully for MMTG, it’s proved they’re unshakeable. Going off-piste with pantomime and coming out the other end with successful results confirms the magnetic pull of tradition. The company’s choice of title for next year, ‘Sleeping Beauty’, paints an instant picture of what would be in store, just from its title, the same can’t really be said for ‘Once Upon A Time In Pantoland’ as it isn’t really able to inform any potential punter of what they’d be coming to see in the same way, whereas next year, we’ll all have a stronger inkling of what it would entail. But the big question is – “does that actually make a difference?” I’d have said it would! But perhaps not!

MMTG’s crush on Alex Jackson lives on. The last few years have seen them produce his penned pantos, and while this particular script might need a cup of coffee in act one, its popularity this season suggests my scepticism is of a minority, it seems as if everyone is doing this one this year! Is Mr Jackson on his way to becoming the new Alan P Frayn in town? Intriguing!

Now, on with the nitty gritty… let’s start with the tunes of choice which were a delightful musical rollercoaster, merging Broadway with a hit-parade of pop classics from recent decades. It's a fusion that unveils the adaptability of show tunes, pop favourites and party songs serving as testament that fairy tales zing when told via a melange of song genres. ‘Chocco Chocco Latte’ was a first-rate decision and particular favourite of the line up, loved it! Beautifully bonkers and joyous!

 

The Spirit of Panto was our immortal being and took on the role of storyteller with crystal clarity, even with instances where the pacing seemed a bit too swift, act two saw her vocals unleash like a storm, leaving the audience in awe. Terrific! The fairy godmother lit up the stage, captivating the audience. Move over, Maleficent; Mouldywart is in town, and is here to steal the spotlight, she delivered her irritation and bitterness towards the world proffering an abundance of chuckles. The dame – (Tif)fanny Tickle, sported an abundance of homemade frocks and quirky accessories which had the audience ‘oohing’ and ‘ahhing’ with each entrance… terrific effort as ever, a performance infused with energy complete with the sporadic bursts of exuberance we’ve come to expect.

The tech departments gave fine support to the overall presentation, I must confess that unless something really does strike as particularly impressive I’m often guilty of taking the sound and lighting departments for granted, only acknowledging them when something goes amiss. Unfortunately for them, such is the nature of their job. I do believe that if you don’t notice them, they’re doing a sterling job, unless the production proffers them with a focal point, which is rare.

MMTG's panto is one of the few I see that continue to incorporate live musicians. While I fully recognise the practicality that drives many groups to opt for tracks, I also appreciate the enduring appeal of keeping live music as part of the presentation. As always in our game, the sordid topic of coin becomes the pivotal factor in decision-making. Live musicians may seem like a luxury in today's landscape, particularly in pantomimes, but is it an extra essential that’s paying for itself?

 

In the grand tradition of pantomime, MMTG's ‘Once Upon A Time In Pantoland’ is a fairground of giggles, the cucumber in the box sketch was a standout moment!... literally! We learn in the first scene that Cinderella is dead and we don’t seem to care about that (controversial much?!) but still – music is merged with both new and recognisable characters and everyone is along for a jolly romp with a splash of adventure.

Already looking forward to Sleeping Beauty... lovely!

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