Pantostein

This was a most unusual and different pantomime for this young cast but one which worked well and was highly entertaining.The town of Cemeteria in the heart of Transylvania holds a competition which attracts some mad scientists resulting in some very strange antics and science inventions where even the locals are turned into zombies.

The pantomime got off to a great start with Dracula (Yiorgos Perris) setting the scene. This young man is an absolute natural on stage and gave a strong performance in every way knowing exactly how to work an audience. Zoe Wanwick also gave a convincing performance as Dracula’s bride, animated and forceful throughout. Investigating the creepy goings on in Cemeteria and trying to pacify people are Boris Von Rental (Joe Burnett) and the commanding Bertha Tidfyl (Lexi Lane). Here was another convincing partnership both players confident in their role and working well together.

Much of the action takes place in the local Guts and Garter Hotel run by Dame Bloodengutz and her lovely daughter Ophelia. Keith Bowden is an experienced ‘dame’ and never fails to bring humour to the plot with his spontaneous actions and flamboyant costume. Caty Kerr was a charming daughter who kept things moving along at a good pace and singing well. The arrival of the baddies Dr. Frank N. Stein (Cameron Aitchison) and his side kick Igor (Bryan McMinn) certainly put a spanner in the works but eventually their experiment in bringing their monster to life wins through. Holly Whitehead, the monster, looked fantastic in her green outfit and stomped around the stage emphatically. Findlay McCourt was a scary Werewolf turning into a delightful Fairy Godmother.

The ensemble of youngsters was lively, always reacting to the action on stage and moving and singing confidently There was some very good choral and part singing with numbers like ‘The Monster Mash’ and ‘I Can Read the Riot’ performed with real conviction. As in true panto fashion, all ended well with everyone finding love and romance. Good sound effects and the use of a smoke machine created a spooky atmosphere and the simple set was used to good effect. Everyone looked splendid too in their colourful costumes.

Although this was an unusual script.it still had all the ingredienst of a traditional panto with lively songs, slapstick, subtle topical humour and audience interaction. The final community sing-a-long bringing youngsters from the audience on to the stage and sweeties thrown out to the audience rounded off this most entertaining, fun pantomime.

I was delighted to present so many awards ranging from several youth certificates, 5 and 10 year badges to two 35 year badges.

Well done Forth Dimensions. This was a most enjoyable way to spend a Saturday afternoon and I left feeling quite festive. Oh yes I did!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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