Rapunzel - The Panto

With an impressive and well-decorated forestage, a large castle turret stage-right, and a jungle area stage-left, the brightly painted flats and back-drops set a stunning scene immediately for some typical pantomime fun. This was a large cast of predominantly young people and the principal characters were well supported by the Junior Chorus, who sang the story through 17 years. Rapunzel played her role with a confidence that belied her age, and together with the “hero” Dudley, they made a charming couple with some excellent singing. As the “desperate duo” Bob and Mullet were particularly quick off the mark, coping well with the sometimes tongue-twisting challenges of the dialogue they didn’t miss a beat! The experience of the two senior members of the cast came through but certainly didn’t over-shadow the youngsters. Dame Dolly was a confident performance, and was just right - a “bloke in a frock”, obviously a well-known “local” who quickly established a good rapport with the audience, and was not to be fazed by any heckling! Wicked Witch Golgatta was slightly tongue-in-cheek but encouraging to the usual boos and hisses, her antics as she scaled the tower caused great mirth, and although the costume was striking it perhaps needed some added colour against the black background.  The opening number with reference to rehearsals etc. was different and amusing but maybe a  little overlong as the audience was keen for the action to begin, and were certainly not disappointed! The ghost scene with the Harry Potter connection and the faded historical characters, together with the “talking-skulls” sequence made for some great touches, and some talented dancing.  The script was cleverly written with plenty of local connections and modern references, and a lot of thought had been given to encompass the entire cast. There was a myriad of super costume changes with a striking finale, and the whole production had a warm ensemble feel which showed a comfortable and supportive company well-used to working together.

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