Sleeping Beauty

Macclesfield Majestic Theatre Group proudly presented their pantomime version of Sleeping Beauty. It was Elizabeth Turner’s debut as the director of Macclesfield’s Majestic pantomime, and it did not disappoint. Elizabeth demonstrated a clear, creative understanding of pantomime, ensuring the pace and projection were strong and consistent throughout. Each of the stock characters, typically seen in pantomime, was well-defined and presented. This performance took audiences on an exciting journey from the Grand Halls of the Palace of Slumberville to Dreamland, with transitions complemented by painted backdrops and physical sets on stage. The slick scene changes supported the flow of the pantomime, minimizing blackouts.

Vince Galley, the musical director, led a live band that brilliantly played a wide range of music, spanning different eras and genres, fitting perfectly with the artistic intent and themes. However, there were moments when the volume, particularly during musical underscores at the start of numbers, made dialogue difficult to hear.

The technical elements integrated throughout the production fully complemented the artistic vision. The lighting smoothly transitioned from high-intensity, colourful lights in ensemble numbers to low-intensity green light for the ‘baddie’. Fantastic, well-timed pyrotechnics added excitement, especially during moments of audience participation.

Emily Knutton coordinated costumes that were in harmony with the story, and it was wonderful to see that the ensemble costumes were just as fantastic as those of the lead characters.

Ellie Lyall choreographed creative and effective ensemble and character dances, allowing all cast members to participate and perform, regardless of their ability. Various dance styles added interest to the musical numbers, with choreography well-rehearsed and executed with energy, accuracy, and smiles.

Kacie Lawton and Joe Hatton played the title roles of the Princess and Prince, delivering their dialogue and vocals with energy and projection. The young princesses and prince, portrayed by Harper Newton, Nieve Mears, and Edward Turner, also performed effectively, with Harper Newton particularly demonstrating a lovely tone in her voice. The three young performers held the stage well during their vocal and dance performance of ‘Reach’.

Mike Daws, as Nanny Nightnurse, kept the audience engaged throughout the production with excellent vocals, dialogue delivery, audience interaction, ad-libbing, and comedic timing. Mike played the pantomime dame with high energy, complemented by ever-changing dame costumes. His confidence in high heels was particularly noteworthy!

Fiona Sadler impressed as the ‘baddie’ of the pantomime, consistently portraying Carabosse in a way that prompted the audience to boo and hiss at her entrances and exits. Her articulation and dialogue delivery were commendable.

The interaction and dialogue delivery of the three fairies, Florence Lomas, Lolly Pettigrew, and Sue Armitt, included good comedic moments. Rosie Savage, as Muddles, delivered lines well with good characterisation, though she could have attacked the dialogue and audience interaction with more energy.

Overall, the pantomime felt quite lengthy, possibly due to the number of musical numbers. However, it had perfectly timed cues, a great atmosphere, and lively audience participation. Macclesfield Majestics should be proud of their interactive, fun, and energetic retelling of the traditional tale, Sleeping Beauty.

Thank you to everyone at Macclesfield Majestics for your kind invitation and hospitality. I look forward to seeing you all soon.

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