Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood

It’s always a pleasure to visit Menston Thespian’s pantomime and this year’s, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, was no exception. Everybody on stage and in the capacity audience was smiling and enjoying themselves. Isn’t that what pantomime is all about?

Once again, directors Steve Gillett-Place and Nick Howell have delivered a fun packed evening, containing all the elements of pantomime that we have come to expect  AND with a live band. Of all the community pantomimes we visit, this is the only one still using live musicians rather than backing tracks. So, thank you to the Musical Director, Dave Boddy and his own merry men – Derek Arnold, Alan Senior and Dean Bagnell.

Whilst I’m on the subject of music, I’m always fascinated at the choice of songs in pantomime – there must be a thesis to be written on the subject. For example, the music in Menston’s show ranged from a 70s disco classic by Sylvester through Elvis Presley, ABBA and Alice Cooper to The Sun Has Got His Hat On. Where else would you experience such a range of music.

In a Pantomime you cannot afford to carry any passengers in the cast as everyone is crucial to the plot and its success. It has to be believable, especially for the children in the audience. In this show there were none. From Principals to the Chorus and Dancers all played their parts exceptionally well.

Leading the way as Robin was Sarah Lee who commanded the stage every time she stepped foot on it. Loveable characterisation which the audience really got behind. Robin’s faithful right hand man, a very camp Will Scarlet played by Wander Bruijel again, had great stage presence. Assisting Robin and Will was the merry band of outlaws as they are lovingly known including Friar Tuck (Keith Galvin), Little John (John Ealden). Special mention to the wannabe Merry Man, Clara (don’t be soft) Loft played by Sally Hughes who gave a joyous performance, who interacted well with the audience. All of them had their own characters to play which was great to see and all made sure the audience knew they were there. I SAY all of them……

Maid Marion was brought to life by Claire Wright Paget. A feisty portrayal of the character who worked well against Sarah (as Robin). Great stage presence and lovely vocals.

No Panto would be complete without the baddies, and this Panto had two to test out the “booing” skills of the audience. Matt Hardin, as the Sheriff of Nottingham was excellent, just the right amount of menace. He obviously revelled in being the baddie and getting the audience to respond to his dastardly deeds. Caramella Marchpane, the evil witch, was well played by Jan Dodds. I would have liked her costume to be a little more witch-like, if budgets allowed. Caramella was well supported by her right hand man/crow, Sherbet, played by Anya Smith at the performance we saw (Sophie Paget at others) – excellent puppetry skills.

Of course, you can’t have evil without good in pantomime – Elaine Galvin, as Fairy May McSquirrel gave a delightfully irreverent performance as the Fairy who couldn’t have her special effects.

Ruth and Charlie Birkett as Hernia Septic and Weasel, the Sheriff’s hapless sidekicks provided great support and interaction with the audience.

The Babes on the evening I attended were played by Niamh Howell and Darcie Clegg who both gave enjoyable performances. I’m sure Molly Cox and Olive Nabarro-Steel were equally as good.

Last, and by means least – what can I say about Nick Howell as Nanny Mangle? Charisma, comedic timing, great interaction with the audience and even when he forgot something, he carried on like a trouper. It’s a brave Dame that wears a catsuit !

All the action on stage is but the tip of a mighty theatrical iceberg – without the dozens of people working hard behind the scenes, the show wouldn’t happen. So, big shout out to all of you – Sarah Hobson (costumes), Vicki Hannam (props), Rob Finlay (lighting), Steve Gillett-Place & George Toms (sound), Amanda Botterill & team (makeup), Sharon Howell (prompt), Gavin Birkett & Adam Nabarro-Steel (set design) and the stage crew and set building team (too many to list here but you know who you are). All of this under the watchful eye of the stage manager, Gavin Birkett.

Congratulations to all the production team – Steve Gillett-Place & Nick Howell (producer & director), Rob Gillett- Place & Ruth Birkett (choreographer)  and Darcie Clegg (dance captain).

This was my final official visit as NODA Rep to Menston. So I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for your wonderful hospitality over the years. We’ve seen some wonderful pantomimes during that time. Thank you.

 

 

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