Sinbad

This production of Sinbad, brilliantly written and directed by John Clark & Andrew Hewitt was once again a triumph from start to finish.  Sinbad is probably one of the lesser known “panto stories” – but it had all the important elements of panto land – as well as ensuring Sinbad had fantastic adventures in magical realms, whilst encountering monsters and pretty scary creatures and characters along the way! 

The whole effect of this production was simply spectacular!  Lighting, sound effects, costumes, scenery, props, makeup, wigs – certainly had the “wow” factor!

The whole cast oozed energy, confidence and enthusiasm from start to finish on their opening night.  The audience were completely enthralled.

In the title role was Lois Brook as Sinbad, partnered by Princess Shahazerad played by Emeli Mumford.  They both have stunning singing voices and brilliant stage presence.  Their musical numbers were delivered with such confidence, ease and expertise.

Evil in every which way was George Scaife as Grand Vizier Vindicta.  George delivers his villainy to perfection – and really got the boos and hisses he deserved!  He was brilliantly supported by Katherine Griffiths in the role of Kronk – his loveable yet dim sidekick.

Harry Hodge played the part of Finbad – Sinbads younger brother.  His rapport with the audience was excellent and his comedy timing and delivery was brilliant.

There were great supporting roles from the Laura Kitching as the Evil Queen, The Wise Woman and Long John Thermals, and Sam Webster as Captain Hook, The Sultan of Olitropilis and Chunky The Monkey.  Costumes and disguises for each character were excellent.

It was a delight to see Elliot Broadfoot return to the Upstagers family as Dame Senorita Margerita Jucilita Despacita – Sinbad and Finbads mother.  From start to finish, the energy of this young man was once again incredible, and he had the audience in fits of laughter from start to finish.  His musical numbers were superbly delivered as always – and he completely “dazzled” in every single outfit (of which there were many!).

The choreography by Laura Williams was superb and musical number after musical number just flowed from start to finish.  The energy from this entire cast was unbelievable.

There was a full cast of well over eighty people listed in the programme (ranging from the “Tinies team Sin and team Bad”, the “Inters team Sin and team Bad”, the “Juniors team Sin and team Bad”, Senior chorus, Senior dancers, and principals) all singing and dancing effortlessly with such energy and enthusiasm.  It makes you tired just watching them!

The Jolly Rogers Band, under the musical direction of Uncle Phil (Walsh) were excellent - playing a superb selection of very up to date as well as traditional musical numbers which really went down a treat with the audience.

Sound and special effects were superbly supplied by John Trenouth, and great lighting effects from Andy Bruce and team.

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