Robinson Crusoe

The Cecil Hepworth Theatre was busy and buzzin’ and everyone received a warm welcome.

Veteran director, James Fortune, was in high spirits; and assured us, with a straight face, that he’d toned down some of the ruder lines in Nigel Homes’ script.

Stage lighting was well done (particularly for the Court of King Neptune scene) and the projected backdrops were attractive…in fact they attracted and painted several of the cast members.

Sound effects were timely & appropriate; and Tim Stannard’s band gave good accompaniment throughout…doing justice to the songs and not drowning the voices of the singers.

Props & sets were well made and used effectively. Costumes were varied and looked good…this was an impressive undertaking to cater for such a large number of people.

Comedy Tonight was the rousing opening number. It’s a very good starter for a pantomime.

Wendy Tyler and Donna Hunter played Swash and Buckle the gormless but hilarious comedy duo. They had a fine selection of (very) old jokes, worked well together and sang Together…a good, cheery number.

Terry Irwin gave an enthusiastic performance as the Dame, Mother Crusoe, and did a great job of winding up the audience.

Darcey Conway played the hero of the show, the fast-talking Robinson Crusoe, whilst Emily Jesshop was Polly Perkins the (initially) reluctant fiancée. They sang very nicely together…Marry You and Back For Good.

Michael Crow was Captain Blood, the poshest pirate in pantomime. He gave us a splendid I Am A Pirate King and led the Wellerman Sea Shanty.

The eternally regal Paul Cox played King Neptune (of course), assisted by Rebecca Wilkes as Plankton.

If I Were Not In Pantomime was definitely the high spot of the show… a fun song where Ian Cannell surpassed himself.

Anne Crow played Miss Friday and belted out Holding Out For A Hero, accompanied by the F.A.R.T.S., with great gusto.

Short John Silver was well played by Charlie Irwin and the extravagantly plumed Japer Parrot (Eddie Hinds) read us the introductions to each scene.

The F.A.R.T.S. appeared to be some sort of sea-going Loose Women and were accompanied by their enthusiastic toyboy, Kevin King.

The ensemble, pantomime cow and the Molesey Dance Academy gave strong support to the production.

It’s lovely to see that MMT are thriving, attracting new people and producing such enjoyable family entertainment.

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