Rapunzel

Wilburton Theatre Group’s seasonal pantomime, performed on 4th December 2025, offered a delightfully quirky adaptation of the classic story of Rapunzel. From the outset, the production embraced panto tradition with a fresh sense of fun, as Rapunzel (Charlotte Dockerty) is stolen from the King (Nick Grant) and Queen (Katie Lewis) by the dim-witted Dame Potty (Tim Meikle) and her sister Lila (Florence Brebner). Raised in a B&B atop a tower, Rapunzel faces the evil Alex’s (Jack Grant) attempts to wed her, all while the Prince Nathan (Kate Lee) embarks on a quest to find the lost princess. True to panto style, the narrative takes amusing twists—including a revival by horse kick rather than true love’s kiss!

The set was simple yet effective, with well-painted backdrops and seamless scene changes, aided by the articulate narration of Fairy Rosa (Elizabeth Smith) and Lila in front of the house tabs. Elizabeth Smith excelled in audience engagement, particularly with her intentionally failed rhymes, drawing laughter and camaraderie.

Leading the show, Charlotte Dockerty’s Rapunzel and Tim Meikle’s Dame Potty delivered strong vocals, and the opening number from Waitress set a lively tone for the B&B setting. Modern musical numbers were interwoven throughout, generally handled well by both soloists and ensemble, enhancing the show.

Jack Grant’s portrayal of Alex leaned more towards comedy than villainy, but his unique dance moves kept the audience entertained and ensured plenty of good-natured ‘booing’ in the right places.

Amelia Hudson and Lucy Allen, as police duo Han and Lou, were clearly having a ball onstage, their energy infectious and their antics well received. Kate Lee brought convincing warmth and heroism to Prince Nathan, tying the story together in his determined pursuit of Rapunzel.

The show reached its conclusion with “Don’t Stop Me Now,” allowing the ensemble and principal characters a well-deserved moment in the spotlight. Directors Millie Sutcliffe and Bethany Webb did a commendable job of involving the youth cast, enhancing the sense of community spirit that ran through the production. Overall, Wilburton Theatre Group’s Rapunzel was an entertaining panto, and a testament to local talent and enthusiasm. Well done to all involved!

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