Robinson Crusoe

The Guildhall is the perfect venue for this society, large enough to allow energetic expression but small enough so as not to overwhelm cast, particularly younger ones, several being in this production. The script, written by local area writer Paula Smith, provided a clear, flowing storyline which was modern, very funny and contained a good helping of the usual panto business that never fails to entertain seasoned audiences. All cast kept pace motoring along, with clear speech and excellent timing which ensured every ounce of humour (or should I say gram!) was picked up and responded to. Every year without fail, an imaginative and colourful set is designed and created in the society’s workshop and every year the end result is stunning! Imagination runs riot and attention to detail second to none. It almost becomes a game to pick out the little quirky painted extras. This production saw a cheeky little crab perched shipside, triumphantly holding a swordfish aloft in his claw! The set could almost be considered a ‘show’ in itself, all changed swiftly and quietly by a calm, efficient team.

A creative lighting plot brought all aspects of the production to life, creating flattering colour hues which remained on a pleasant slow burn until key moments such as full production numbers, when skilful effects came to the fore giving a huge amount of impact to the moment. Unfortunately sound did not fare quite so well, body mics were well controlled but there was an imbalance between the backing tracks and singers which gave an impression of the music coming from another space, rather than in harmony with them. Frustratingly, feedback became an irritation that continued throughout the production. The sound gremlins were obviously having a field day at this performance! Pantomime costumes are another area where imagination can go wild, and it did! I will never tire of seeing the ‘Jack Sparrow’ look, which Captain Jack wore so well. This costume had been given the Axminster o.t.t., quirky touch and looked great, needless to say as the whole wardrobe did.

Casting was excellent with a mixture of ages and experience joining forces without any sign of divide. Young Jessica Leat, who was almost born on the stage, took the choreography reins for the first time as well as playing an extremely assured role as the fairy and coordinating and teaching the music, to say she did a fabulous job is an understatement! Choreography was sharp and edgy with the young dancers full of life and obviously loving every moment. Modern song choices sat perfectly within the show, sung as one with a lovely sound and a strength that remained constant, despite the energetic movement. Cast using buckets and utensils to add percussion to the chorus number ‘Rocking all Over the World’ was an inspired piece of staging, working brilliantly! Dame, Cassandra Crusoe (Andy Blundell) looked flamboyant and extremely comfortable wearing his outrageous costumes while Chris Crusoe (Katie Richards) charmed us with her lovely voice and animated performance! As the productions namesake, Josie Cable showed authority and stage presence in equal measures, a necessity as one of the stage anchors! Caroline Markham’s easy and natural comedic ability should not brand her as a ‘one horse pony,’ this lady has stage talents galore and easily slotted into one of the ‘daft duo’ roles again after her ‘baddie’ role last year! As an accomplished team player, her relationship with the other half, James Windsor (Noah the Ropes) appeared relaxed and dare I say as structured as panto allows! Their interaction with the audience kept interest and inclusion on a fast boil. Ticking the vast majority of boxes for first class family entertainment, the talented cast along with expert technical crew and firm direction places this first rate production up there with some of the best!

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