Red Riding Hood

RODS have produced their pantomime for many years and this one was fresh and entertaining.   Although not a traditional panto story it contained all the traditional elements and everyone on the audience joined in and enjoyed the fun.

Of course the Dame is an important part of any panto and Trevor Bavin has all the techniques of a good dame. Zoe Tebbutt (Peter) and Gemma Elsey (Red Riding Hood) both gave strong performances.   Charlotte Noble (The Fairy) had a lot of lines as she was the character that kept the show together, which she did with great style.   I was told afterwards that Charlotte took over the part with just two weeks to go.  She was word perfect which is simply outstanding and I congratulate her on what must have been a difficult two weeks.

Beverley Drain (Pinny) and Kathryn Llewellyn (Patches) played the traditional ‘Buttons’ role as a duo and very good they were.  Whilst Mike Robertson (Mr Hyde) and Karen Barton (Mr Seekum) gave us some great comedy moments throughout the show.  Martin Wood was excellent as the Wolf and Terry Pearce (Squire Bullymore) was also good.

The ensemble worked really hard and the Kelly Went Dancers were delightful, all of them giving outstanding performances.   The scenery was simple but very effective and the costumes were good.   Lighting was sympathetic and, the sound worked perfectly, not an easy task to achieve in this venue

I did find the occasional ‘off stage’ announcements rather unnecessary, the show moved at a good pace and they did not add to the performance.   Overall a really good evening’s entertainment.  Thank you RODS.

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