Peter Pan and the Pirates

In this script, written and directed by Kerwin Robertson, we have a sequel to the original J M Barrie story in which we find out what happens 15 years on to Peter and his arch enemy Captain Hook - who was regurgitated by the Crocodile after the feather on his hat tickled it’s gullet! The script contained everything a community panto should – local references, corny jokes, well known tunes with rewritten lyrics and of course a happy ending. Elliott Bell was excellent in the title role of Peter Pan with good stage presence and a strong singing voice. His fencing skills were none too shabby either as proven in his final showdown with Captain Hook, played admirably by company stalwart Colin Jones with just the right about of swash and buckle mixed with evil glee. Peter was aided in his efforts by Sara Stewart as a delightful Tinkerbell and Emma Chew in her debut role with the group as a feisty Jane Darling (Wendy’s daughter). Stuart McMain once again proved his comedic prowess in the role of the dame Isla McHaddock. Her five minute monologue of traditional panto jokes, puns and innuendos in Scene 1 had the full house audience laughing and groaning in equal measure! Aiding her in her efforts was Graeme Mackay as her silly son Archie McHaddock who had a special song about the Small Ships Race (a take on the Tall Ships Race hosted by Aberdeen earlier in the year) which he tried to regale us with at the drop of a hat but was always thwarted. Adding greatly to the laughter in the piece was Grahame Whyte’s Captain Smee – promoted from Bosun but still as hapless. His number with the three sexy mermaids Ariel, Persil and Non-bio (played by Hilary Esson, Audrey Reid and Ashley Mildon) was hilarious. Captains abounded in this script and Paula Milne made a very strong thigh slapping Captain Redd searching Neverland for Rob Roy MacGregor’s treasure. Strong support was given by Zoe Meldrum (Wendy Darling), Alex Busch (Mr Darling) and Richard Stables (Narrator). The 23 strong chorus, made up mainly of youngsters, sang and moved well in their numbers including those of the Spice Girls and the Village People and especially in the rendition of their traditional finale number “Merry Christmas Everyone”. The five piece band, under Musical Director Lindsey Masson, gave excellent support to the cast throughout. Costuming was bright and bold and appropriate to each character. The set too was bright and bold and kept simple allowing plenty of room for the onstage action. Congratulations everyone at Culter Theatre Club for once again delivering a delightful and most enjoyable panto to your community.

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