Robinson Crusoe

Last year, I attended the relaxed pantomime performance of Jack and the Beanstalk with my granddaughters, now aged 10 and 8, who were excited to see Robinson Crusoe. I’d like to share my thoughts as before, since inclusivity is vital. Vivienne, the older girl, often joins me when reviewing for NODA if the show is age-appropriate, and always behaves well. For Gabrielle, last year was her first experience, and after our positive visit to the Talisman, I booked again without hesitation; their mom joined us because it was such a good event.

We were welcomed into the foyer and each child was given a wonderful gift of a sensory bag containing so many thoughtfully chosen items to entertain and give a link to the story, a small stuffed ball(Rat) and a pot of sand slime to name but a couple of things that were constantly in and out of the cloth bag during the pantomime.

I appreciated the company's proactive response to my feedback regarding leaving an empty seat between groups or families, which helped ensure guests did not sit beside strangers. Sally provided an introduction to the cast, after which the lights were dimmed—but not completely dark—and the doors remained open. Each cast member was introduced, and it was clarified that their performances were mere representations intended to convey the story. Audience members were assured there was no cause for alarm, as the actors' portrayals were simply part of the narrative.

Upon commencement of the pantomime, I commend the cast for their ability to persevere and maintain composure throughout their dialogue, despite unpredictable audience reactions. Notably, I observed several familiar traits among returning attendees, suggesting they had previously found the pantomime enjoyable.

Harry Bowser gave a characterful performance as Robinson Crusoe. I was taken by Davina Jones (Sam Harris) fantastic costume especially her boots, complete with skull and cross bones. We lost count of how many costume changes were made by Ben Ionoff as Clarissa Crusoe.They were all wonderful, however the most eye catching being the red and yellow stripe dress with various carrier/shopping bags hanging all over it, the alternative branding made the adults chuckle, Boots became BOOBS, Superdry SUPERWET,  Post Office became POST ORIFICE and from memory his hat displayed GLADLY rather than Radley. No outfit like this would be complete without shopping basket earrings! Phoebe Dann was an integral part of the cast as Susie, as of course was Jack Ives as Billy Crusoe who’s only friend appeared to be Rodney the Rat, my girls loved shouting here’s Rodney and fretting in the bag to retrieve theirs. James Harris played the baddie character Montgomery Moneybags. Lauren McCann was Britannia. Seafaring Sam and King Neptune/Friday were played by siblings Amy and Matthew Joliffe respectively. Amanda Wright was the Island Queen and last but not least of the principal lineup was Laurie Weston as Paddling Pete. Along with a small supporting  ensemble including Ellie Chapman who operated Rodney the Rat. The well-chosen musical numbers enhanced and told the story throughout. I enjoyed ‘Count on Me 1,2,3’, ‘Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend’, ‘Rule the World’, and ‘In the Navy’. I apologise if this is incorrect. It would be beneficial if the program included a list of musical numbers, so that it would not be necessary to take detailed notes. Fortunately, the lighting allowed for note-taking more easily than usual.

Talisman Theatre consistently maintains a professional standard in all aspects of its productions, and this relaxed performance was no exception. The creative team and crew demonstrated exceptional skill, and the costumes were, as always, outstanding.

Congratulations to everyone involved; the relaxed performance was thoroughly inclusive. Although I expected challenges with my granddaughter's sensory needs, every aspect was thoughtfully addressed.

A wonderful afternoon once again for me, being able to experience live theatre with my grandcildren. 

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