Robinson Crusoe

What a thoroughly enjoyable evening this was.

This traditional, community-based pantomime saw some good performances. I especially liked George Elson’s confident portrayal of Captain Honey, as well as his partnership with Jake Wilson’s entertainingly ‘over the top’ Captain Sweety. Their showpiece number ‘In the Navy’ was a little chaotic but great fun. At the centre of any panto is the dame and Rob Ives brought plenty of energy, enthusiasm and skill to the role. Rob’s costumes and headgear were of a very high quality and his rapport with the audience, with just the right amount of sauce, was right on the nail.

Leah Dixon played principal boy Robinson Crusoe with great confidence and ability, very ably supported by Michelle Virgo, as good friend Felix. I enjoyed their duet, ‘Always on my Mind’. 

Charlie Nairn-Smith has the makings of a good ‘baddie’ – he certainly has the look! Just a little more confidence should bring in the boos and hisses in abundance. Go for it Charlie!  Megan Coyle made a pleasingly cheeky Simon Crusoe and I liked her routines with her ‘mum’, Mrs Crusoe. Being onstage alone is a challenge which Megan met well but a slightly slower delivery would make her performance even better. Zoe McNamee and Tyler Hodgkinson provided further comedy as ship’s mates Use and Less. Yvonne Gurney and Amber Pritchett as Polly and Mary respectively played Robinson and Felix’s love interest. Polly’s solo ‘Miss Cellophane’ was well-chosen and performed well. 

Blackbeard’s pirate band could have been rather more threatening but I liked Imogen Newman as the hapless Pirate Fred. 

Finally mention must be made of the chorus – Summer, Jenson, Sydney, Faith, Jade and Tyler – who provided song and dance between each act. Confident, well-rehearsed and right on the button, they were a joy to watch. 

There were few prompts and diction was nice and clear. 

No man Friday – bearing in mind the genuine problems this can cause this was a wise decision by scriptwriter and director Chris Pratt. But the script did include lots of local references which clearly amused the audience – an essential part of traditional panto. And, showing the company's ambition, there was a very fine UV scene. 

Music, unsurprisingly in such a small venue, was recorded but it was appropriate and carefully chosen. 

All this well-managed on a small stage with attractive scenery and efficient scene changes.

This was the group’s 72nd pantomime. A proud record – and one which I am sure they will continue to build on in future.

Thanks to all at Trusthorpe, especially Chris Pratt and the friendly couple at front of house, for their warm welcome and hospitality.

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