Red Riding Hood

~~A more unusual adventure into panto land was F.C.S.S.E.S’s annual production this year.  The story of Red Riding Hood had been adapted well for this genre of entertainment with most of the required goodies and baddies in place but with just a few tweaks here and there.  There was a prince disguised as a woodcutter, a rather feisty Red Riding Hood and an evil count who could transform himself into a werewolf.  Consequently I felt that these characters added depth to the storyline and gave the actors more to work with. 
A live two piece ensemble introduced the proceedings and led to an opening number for the youngest members of the company who smiled and presented themselves well both then and whenever they made an appearance.  Well done!
All the principals seemed suited to their roles and strutted their stuff in the required manner.  There were a number of standout performances which I must mention, Shaun Johnson made a superb dame creating and maintaining an instant rapport with the audience throughout.  He was ably supported by Ben Underwood as Simple Simon the undoubted village idiot and Carrie West made the most of the role of Red Riding Hood (definitely not to be messed with!) and her character contrasted nicely with the introduction of Jill, her sister, played by Victoria Farrar.  James Reynolds really relished his role as the (were) Wolf aka Count Calamitions and played it with much panache and evil intent able assisted by Melissa Morse as his sidekick Crookback.
A good plus for this performance were the colourful costumes, bright sets and lighting with lively musical accompaniment throughout.  Everyone working in these departments, often under appreciated by audiences, had obviously worked with total commitment.  Well done to all of you!
F.C.S.S.E.S is a real community group.  I saw the very first performance of the show which was packed full of youngsters who were full of excitement.  Judging from their infectious giggles, enthusiastic responses and singing of the house song they had a marvellous afternoon.  Who could ask for anything more!!
 

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