Puss in Boots

Panto time had come once again to Jarrow Community Centre as lots of excited children waited for the show to start. They were not disappointed because as the band struck up and a bright and effective set was revealed, along with beautiful vibrant costumes. 

The chorus looked and sounded good, and gave great pace to their numbers. There were lots of parts in this panto and each person worked hard at creating their character. Helen Eltringham looked every inch the part of principal boy, Ralph, with her good looks and long legs. She was well partnered with Frances Wood, as Princess Coral, who had a lovely singing voice. Andrea Dunn was a great Puss. She moved with ease and added feline moves to enhance, but not dominate the character.

Comedy came in a variety of forms with Lawrence Clark playing the big, bold and bumptious dame, while Alyson Moore was a funny, quirky and unconventional Fairy. The comedy duo took the form of Daniel Gibson as Trip, and Jill Reay as Maisy, They worked well together and got the audience involved as the story unfolded. I loved the baddy, Ogre Hardcast, who in his black leather costume was very flamboyant and dramatic. Director Andrew Fearon is to be congratulated on taking over this part the week of the show.

Finally I must mention the Dancers and Babes from Sage Academy of Performing Art who were excellent.

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