Peter pan

I do love a trip to Spennymoor Youth Theatre Group.  Enthusiasm in abundance, drive and determination of those who support the youth and a lovely bunch of people to boot.  Their long awaited production of “Peter Pan” was able to get to the stage this week after being rescheduled multiple times due to the pandemic and this group were more than ready to show their packed houses exactly what they were made of.  A lovely community group who do so much more than just putting on shows.  They’re nurturing these children and encouraging them to be their best selves, as well as bringing entertainment to the town of Spennymoor at their lovely civic hall.  Almost fifty children graced that stage, gave their all and the standing ovation said it all.

The costuming was fantastic, bright and appropriate, so well done to Margaret Thompson, Lesley McDermott, Louise Defty, Trudy Cowan and Donna Gilroy.  The scenery was simply, appropriate and easy to move and the animated backdrop for the flying scenes really made a difference. 

All performers had lovely clear diction and their voices were clear for all of the audiences to clear.  Megs Defty wowed as Mrs Darling with a beautiful strong clear singing voice.  Peter Pan played by Amy Gatland was a fabulous actor with a lovely smile and animation throughout.  Emma Belshaw as the storyteller did a sterling job with a twist I didn’t expect at all!  Her voice carried across very clearly.   Wendy, John and Michael the Darling children were played by Bethany Wanless, Alfie Stephenson and Lucy Edwards respectively who all did very well in their respective roles, especially Bethany who’s voice is lovely, and I do hope to see more of you Bethany.  I especially enjoyed the song asking who will mother me – I didn’t have a song list in the programme to check the title I’m afraid.

Tinkerbelle played by Isabelle Addison was absolutely adorable, what a little cutie and the Lost boys were the cutest I ever did see.  Their choreography by Megs Defty was well rehearsed and appropriate for their ages and ability, especially the fight scene between Lost Boys and Pirates.

Captain Hook was played well by Faith McDermott accompanied by the hapless Smee played by Rhys Bye who always delivers on stage.  The pirates were played by the older members generally and did very well in suitably terrifying the audience when required.  Tasha Witton did stand out in her portrayal of Jukes, well done Tasha.

The band was well balanced and controlled under the direction of John Hudson and accompanied the children beautifully.

A lovely evening out – thank you all so much and I cannot wait to see you all again soon.

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