Robinson Crusoe

I was delighted to be invited to attend the Premiere of Robinson Crusoe written by David White in this, St Ambrose Players, 70th, Anniversary Year. Once again, David has written an excellent script with all the ingredients of a traditional Pantomime combined with lots of current topics, innuendoes and word play. This worked on all levels and most importantly, to all age groups. All the audience booed, hissed and cheered and  generally joined in the clapping and singing so important in this particular genre. The sets, lighting and sound were excellent. This society has a great reputation for set design and construction and they have, yet again, excelled. Costumes were again, just what were required and helped to make this production the success it certainly was. David White has also directed the production and it is obvious he is a fan of this particular type of show and has ensured that we were given a truly traditional pantomime which, in my opinion, should always be the case. There were some great performances on stage.  Pauline Todd as Robinson Crusoe and Sarah White as Sally were an excellent pairing and Andrew Sugden as Captain Cutlass made his presence known with every entrance. David Hughes as Squire was outstanding. He has developed a lovely character and his timing was excellent. We were treated to a very funny cameo from Tim Braddy as The Wizard of Aus.  Buttermilk the cow, (Debbie Sheehan and Beverley Yates) looked fabulous and children and adults alike, loved her. The children taking part were well drilled and we could tell they were enjoying every moment. They and the older dancers were very well choreographed by Jennie Barnes. I particularly liked the opening of act two with some lovely dancing with the help of some effective U.V. lighting. I did think it was the wrong choice of music for that particular scene but felt the remainder of music was a good mix to suit all ages. The band under the direction of Judith Oakes complemented a very good show. Merry Christmas to all. Thank you for the warm welcome for my wife and myself.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.