Sleeping Beauty

Kei Bailey’s version of Sleeping Beauty is far from being a traditional pantomime, but it suited Menston Thespians’ purposes beautifully as it provided lots of opportunities for their talented cast. We opened with a beautifully costumed and very cheerful fairy (Sally Hughes) but then found ourselves in a village surgery complete with an amusing joke filled backcloth. The very camp Dr Goodblood and Welsh Matron Clench kept popping up throughout the show to provide added comedy.

Finally, we moved to the traditional opening chorus of happy, smiling villagers and we were on more familiar territory. Our comedy hero, Dirk played by Charlie Birkett and Dame Nellie (Nick Howell) soon built a strong rapport with the audience and welcomed us into Pantoland. We even had chance to practice the community song, ready for later in the show. Costumes throughout were really excellent but especially in the case of Nellie Nightingale who had some amazing costumes and wigs.

A well cast baddy couple entered stage left into a green light with echo effect mikes. Matt Hardin and Sarah Lee worked well together to provide the opportunity for the familiar boos. Darcie Clegg and Niamh Howell were a very sweet couple as Adora and Vince. These parts were doubled during the course of the week and I wasn’t able to see Molly Cox and Olive Nabarro-Steel. Many parts were doubled and there were also understudies. This company is clearly spoiled for choice in the talent department. A crazy King and Queen, a miserable jester, a bossy politician, a brainless nurse and many wonderful fairies completed the cast.

The ensemble performed excellently throughout with some great numbers. Star Trekking as the opening to Act Two was really energetic and fun. I very much enjoyed Another One Bites the Dust and there was a fabulous big sing during the bows of I can’t help Falling in Love with You. This segued into a fantastic finale showing the strength in depth of the company with excellent singing and movement from everyone. A shout out to Isla Smith who sang beautifully, as did many of the ensemble.

This is the point to praise the band, led by David Boddy. As well as accompanying the songs, they also extemporised during scene changes and provided mood music which really enhanced the show. Choreography throughout was excellent and inventive, allowing everyone to become fully involved.

There was a large range of attractive backcloths and some interesting props and costumes. The space ship scene was stunning. Well done to Rachel Cox and Katrina Smith who took on the difficult task of front and back of the horse. An excellent wolf also appeared because as well as providing a panto with a modern twist, Kei Bailey acknowledged that ‘the old ones are the best’. The children in the audience loved the ‘it’s behind you’ scene, but were probably a bit confused by the medicine mixing scene which didn’t quite go to plan in the colour changing stakes.

Due to sell out performances, the group added an additional night this year. Maybe there will be even more nights in the future. Congratulations to directors/producers Steve and Nick who have built a wonderful community here where everyone (but especially your young people) can thrive. And as they rightly say in their notes, many thanks to the whole Pantoland community who work so hard to provide this annual event.

Thank you for inviting me (for rep. Christine Castle.)

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