Sleeping Beauty

Once again Paignton Pantomime Productions produced an absolutely fabulous pantomime.  It was akin to watching a master class on how to deliver first-class entertainment.  Although the rehearsal period is just seven weeks those weeks are pretty intense, and the cast shows a level of commitment and dedication that cannot be faulted.  With at least a dozen performances spanning Christmas and New Year, it shows their professionalism that the performance was still so fresh.  Teamwork must play a large part in their success as well -  they behave as if they are a close family, supporting each other.  Also, there is no trace of self-indulgence in anyone's performance, it is all about the audience's enjoyment and a fabulous rapport was quickly developed.

The pace was very good with never an empty stage and the audience was so involved with the story that the time just raced away.  Gags were delivered with perfect timing and as if part of the story.  The slightly naughty ones were delivered in such a way that they sailed over the little ones' heads.  There was no need for the audience to be persuaded to laugh as so often happens with panto, chuckles and outright laughter rippled around this auditorium.    This was a strong talented cast with a good number of young people and also more mature actors, making a very good balance.  The characters had developed well with clear relationships between them.

This was very much a traditional panto so there was a community song with youngsters being brought up on stage.  This was managed very neatly by using a golden ticket system, so children were chosen in advance, avoiding the usual interruption to the overall performance but still giving the children their moment in the spotlight.  This was a charming part of the afternoon.   

One of the joys of this group's panto is the dancing.  Senior girls in gorgeous costumes danced exquisitely.  The Juniors, girls and boys wearing many beautiful costumes delighted us with their superb dancing.  And all the time the dancers smiled and were so engaged with the pantomime they clearly were loving what they were doing.

The band made a super sound whether playing alone or accompanying the glorious singing. They were very much part of the proceedings, even when the water pistols came out and they were thoroughly soaked.  

There were many different sets and they were well planned and attractive.  They worked well with the script and scene changes were smooth and speedy. The costumes were stunning with wonderful rich colours, adding to the Wow factor.

The sound was very good and also the diction so there was never a problem hearing the dialogue or the songs.  Initially, it seemed a tad over mic'd but it soon became apparent that the audience responses were going to be so enthusiastic that this level of sound was necessary.

The lighting was exciting and good use made of spotlights but it is important for the actor to make sure to stay within the spot.  

After the performance, we were sought out by the theatre staff who wanted to tell us how much they appreciated the way the youngsters had left the dressing rooms clean and tidy, how helpful they were being, what delightful manners they had and how much they enjoyed having them in the theatre.     Wow -  that says so much about a society and it was so good to hear.  

Many congratulations to Paignton Pantomime Productions for once again giving the audience a magical experience at the theatre to remember.

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.