SINBAD THE SAILOR

   Malborough village may be a relatively small place but its well and truly on the map as far as amateur theatre  is concerned! MAD have a great reputation for putting on super productions and this was no exception!

It is nice to see a pantomime that is not your run of the mill production, it had all the right ingredients, including a very good script.

Some how MAD have that knack involving everyone who wants to be in the show without the stage ever looking crowded!

There was a strong cast for Sinbad, not one weak link! They also work very much as a team.

The energy and vibrance came across to the audience and really enthused them to react and respond as required.

The set was so well done and the ship scene together with a very clever figurehead for the ship was a nice touch.

The pace was excellent with clear diction and some good choices of songs, sung well.

Sinbad came across well with that little bit extra as the Principal Boy. She had the stance, sense of command, and blended well with Princess Sita. They really complemented each other well.

               Dame Norma Snickers excelled! He put everything into it his delivery and was a joy to watch. He had the audience lapping it up, just a natural.

Tinbad the Tailor did a great job along with Silly Sally who did a great characterisation that she never let up, along with a super lisp!

The Grand Wazir had that clear strong voice so right for this role and a good singing voice.

The Calipha did well and get on the wrong side? look out!  Your head may have been toppled!

Cash and Flow worked very well together, and timing was good! Prince Said made a Prince with great authority, strong yet gentle, very good!

With Panto you need a strong chorus, that can turn their hand to anything, and this is where MAD is very lucky with a willing, experienced and able chorus who support and enhance the Principals. The other named roles, Evilena, Fortuna, Male Model, Winbad the Whaler, Jinbad the Jailor, the Slave Seller and The Old Man of the Sea were excellent, again playing their parts with gusto and hugely supportive.

Evilena’s Minions did well, and you could tell they loved every minute of it!

The young cast that performed the night I attended were excellent. They were a joy to watch, smiling, reacting and working well together!

Back Stage Crew worked hard and with minimum disturbance (quite a skill) There was a very good and joyful sound from the Band. The costumes were of a high standard and beautifully colourful. Many people do not realise the hard work that goes into actually getting shows onto the stage, but the effort really pays off when such a joyful and memorable show is performed.  Pantomime is a great and unique theatre tradition and unbeatable entertainment when performed so well in the darkest days of winter. A special mention to the lighting department. I was so sorry to learn of the very sad situation that lead to a last minute replacement having to be found .A very good job was made of it, so on behalf of the audience , a huge thank you to all of you .It couldn’t have been easy, but in the great tradition of theatre  “the show must go on”

The Prompt may have been working at rehearsals, but I am delighted to say I never heard her!! Clare Carter & Bev Adams demonstrated their choreographic skill with some great movement and placing.   And special thanks to the Director who not only did a grand job as the thigh slapping Sinbad but Directed as well! Is there no end to her talents?

Thank you Mad A great evening of good entertainment as always that everyone visibly enjoyed!

Graham Liverton

Regional Councillor NODA Southwest

 

 

           

 

 

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