Peter Pan

I was looking forward very much to attending Morley's seasonal offering of 'Peter Pan', as I had not heard of it as a pantomime - that is, until I saw that the Bradford Alhambra were also presenting it this year! Morley AOS should feel very proud of themselves - this was a truly family panto, with all the right ingredients for both young and not so young audiences.

Directed cleverly by Dean Patrick, the show began with a spirited opening number by Native American 'squaws' - then, the action moved to the bedroom of the Darling children, Mother, Father, Liza the maid and of course, Nana the dog (lots of 'aahs' from the audience!) The dialogue followed very closely to the original play, with some spirited acting from Peter Pan and Tinkerbell (prettily costumed in a tutu). Tinkerbell's dialogue was recorded and was a little sticky at times, but the interpretation may have been in the stage directions. There followed a spectacular video projection of Peter leading the Darling children to Neverland. I must congratulate the company on such a clear and professional video. Once in Neverland, the story took off with excellent performances from all the principals - Running Water, the Dame and Smee had brilliant scenes together, with Captain Hook getting all the 'boos' - we also had a glamorous mermaid, Marina, who had some very funny dialogue, a feisty Tiger Lily and a dastardly Starkey. The Darling children, particularly Wendy, were well-rehearsed and played their scenes very well. Peter Pan brought much energy to the part and I was pleased to see that Jeni was able to 'fly' onstage in the fight scene with Hook - no mean feat at Morley Town Hall! The principals were supported by an excellent ensemble of Pirates and Indians, with plenty of enthusiasm and energy. The 'Lost Boys' worked very hard and kept up their individual characters, much to trhe amusement of the audience.

As always, the production was beautifully costumed by Tina 'Tacker' Riordan and her team; Megan Brown provided some excellent make-up; Stageing, props, lighting and sound were as always, of high calibre. Musical direction was once again in the capable hands of David Hann, with pleasing Choreography from Andrew Lockwood (assisted by Joanne Cook, Dance Captain). Dean Patrick has produced a splendid pantomime - and judging by the audiience's reaction the night I attended, much appreciated. Morley always manages to add an extra 'bit of business' to their productions - this year, we had a human 'Crocodile', who swept menacingly around the auditorium, accompanied by Nana, much to the delight of the Cubs, Beavers and Brownies in attendance.

A fun-packed pantomime, which cheered up a rainy winter's evening!

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