Peter Pan

Morpeth Pantomime Society, in their production of Peter Pan, this year used an original script written by their producer, Gordon Carr, and it worked very well in this school venue with limited stage area and lack of space for a large set. It was good to see the involvement of 'King Edward VI' school pupils who constructed and painted the set, as well as providing the small band ensemble, lighting and sound. The introduction of live music this year was a really great addition and gave the cast a super backing for their singing. The set was original, and it was good to see that it made best use of the stage. I particularly liked the ‘Lost Boys’ underground hideout on the stage right apron. It enhanced the area and was well planned and so effective. The whole show boded well and whilst the Peter Pan story is more a show, rather than a pantomime, the company had taken great care to successfully include all the usual pantomime expectations.

The principal parts were well cast and they were obviously enjoying themselves, therefore the audience were soon enthusiastically joining in wherever there was a chance. Set changes moved along swiftly and kept the running of the show going at a good pace. Having enough cast to have separate ‘pirates’ and ‘indians’ gave us a  good contrast and their costumes and make-up were excellent and very colourful and eye-catching. There is a huge involvement of children in this society and they were well rehearsed in their moves and singing, as well as being supported by enthusiastic and experienced adults. The dancers from the ‘Centre Stage Theatre School’ were a lovely addition to the show and I would love to see them do more routines and show their versatility.  They are extremely good and their ballet routine was beautiful and showed off their talents to the full.

Principal roles were authentically played and each character was reflected in the good acting. In the colourful opening scene ‘The Darling Family’ were convincing in their respective roles.  ‘Dora Dyson’, the dame, played by Chris Davis, arrived to lots of chuckling by the audience and was colourful and entertaining and, though I know it is difficult to both ‘work in’ and ‘find’ appropriate shoes, I would say start looking now for next year as the sound system picked up every step and the clomping around was a little irritating, though Chris worked hard to cover it. ‘Peter Pan’ was played by Lewis Gammer and looked just the part and complemented his entourage of ‘Lost Boys’. The ‘Lost Boys’, Lauren Hodgson, Ellie Cape, Jonny Wilson and Chris Johnstone, were excellent. They spoke clearly, had each developed a realistic personality, and sang exceptionally well. Pippa Gammer, playing ‘Tinker Bell’, was just perfect, and she also performed a lovely singing solo. She is a talented young lady and I hope we see more of her in the future and even more singing. All the supporting roles were well executed and complemented the main principals. 

However huge applause must go to Tony Jackson, playing ‘Smee’,and Eric Tolman, playing ‘Simm’ who made a wonderful comedy duo who worked so well together, the audience loving their hilarious antics. I gather it was Eric’s first time on stage and he rose to the challenge. What a star he was, with so much energy and charisma, a wonderful addition to this society.

From the laughter in the audience and huge applause, it was obvious that the tireless effort put in to stage this production was much appreciated.  A thoroughly enjoyable evening and as usual meeting the cast, crew and production team was a real pleasure. With the introduction of live music this year, I look forward to even more singing from the whole cast next year. Well done to everyone for a very successful show and making me so welcome.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.