Petra Pandabidozy - KIDS ON STAGE

This was my first visit to Walkerville Community Centre to see this children’s group perform their very own ‘take’ on J.M.Barrie’s classic story of Peter Pan; the boy (but in this case - girl) who can fly and who never grows up. The original tale tells of visits to Neverland as the leader of the Lost Boys and the interaction with Fairies, Red Indians, Pirates and a rather hungry Crocodile, whom we all met in this humorous adaptation.

This enthusiastic and dedicated bunch of youngsters, notably led by Isobel Ross as Petra, transported its packed audience to the mythical island, with some lusty singing and good movement on a stage not built for 30. The wonderful costumes, backdrops and occasional props all complimented the setting. With fabulous support from James Archer as the dashing Captain Hook, who formed a splendid comic duo with his sidekick Smee – played by Jamie Stephenson, the two very pretty fairies Blinka (Sophia Archer) and Belle (Daisy Stephenson), the beautiful Tiger Lily (Hannah Croney), and the comedic lost boy Tootles (William Metcalf) all played fantastic parts as the story unfolded.

The Farthing family headed by Maddy Bushell as the Mother, with Abigail Tindle as Mandy, Joel Booth as Martin and Kane Byrne as James all played their parts excellently well, and were extremely convincing.

As with all good stories when they reach their climax, everyone lived happily ever after... (except Hook of course who met his end after walking the plank and being devoured rather noisily by Harrison Mallarkey as the fearsome Crocodile!).

The music – highlights of which for me were ‘Mother Earth’ and ‘Be Our Guest’ along with the rousing finales of both Acts 1 and 2 - was excellently conducted by Joan Fothergill and nicely delivered by her small ensemble in the pit. Alan Tomkins must also be congratulated for an exceptional artistic result; only having this group for one hour per week for rehearsals. Well done to you both. What a shame there was only one performance – I would have gladly gone back again!.

Thanks and congratulations for the whole of the KIDS ON STAGE TEAM for all of their hard work and dedication. I look forward to your next show.

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