Sleeping Beauty

Ellesmere Devils’ Pantomime Society marked their 25th year with a riotously entertaining staging of Sleeping Beauty, penned and directed by Amy Metcalfe and James Nicholas. This production proved to be an absolute triumph, seamlessly blending the classic fairy tale with the Society’s signature brand of panto humour, ensuring laughter echoed throughout the auditorium all night.

The evening opened with Trisha Highton, appearing as a health and safety official, delivering the customary announcements only to be interrupted by Amy Metcalfe in a nice little cameo. Metcalfe’s request for Highton to step in as Fairy Merryweather set the tone, after a little audience banter, Highton reluctantly agreed, the foundation of her character for the rest of the events.

The technical wizardry was evident from the outset. The fairies appeared in a cleverly constructed frame, their legs portrayed by actors’ arms clad in striped tights, while stage crew manipulated their arms to create the illusion of flight. The missing third fairy, Fairy Merryweather, entered the fray in comedic confusion, delivering one of several technical highlights. The transformation of Sleeping Beauty’s bed in Act Two, reminiscent of the ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’, was another inventive touch that kept the staging fresh and imaginative.

Trisha Highton’s portrayal of Fairy Merryweather was a masterclass in comic performance. Her ability to feign cluelessness whilst expertly navigating her role drew comparisons to Les Dawson’s famous piano act, where intentional mistakes mask true mastery. Her comic timing and physicality were impeccable, providing a performance that would surely be Oscar-worthy if pantomimes were eligible for such accolades.

Lauren Dennis and Charlee New, as Fairy Flora and Fairy Fauna respectively, complemented Highton brilliantly, guiding her through the mayhem with strong vocals and infectious energy. Their dynamic as a trio was one of the evening’s standout features.

The “Right” guards, played by Chris Evans and Dan Hardingham, brought a burst of visual and comic flair. Sporting gold lamé trousers, red soldier jackets, and bum bags, they channelled the spirit of the Pet Shop Boys and Wham! Spraying deodorant and splitting comically as Dazzle the horse, their antics consistently stole scenes and delighted the audience.

Maleficent (Tess Garner), alongside Colin and Keith the Crow (Richard Fisher and Libby Burton), formed a wonderfully villainous trio. Garner’s songs were delivered with fitting menace, while Fisher and Burton’s costumes enhanced their lively physical performances. The 1980s homage, complete with a rendition of “The Birdy Song”, was a nod to classic panto comedy, much to the audience’s enjoyment.

Sam Clarke and Jess Bendon, as Aurora and Phillip, provided strong and balanced performances, anchoring the chaos with their sincerity and solid vocals. Clarke’s singing stood out, and a touch more confidence in delivery (and a smile) would elevate her already impressive stage presence.

The supporting cast, including Alice Parkin (Queen), Kerry Murphy (King), and Martin Attwood (the “Real” Merryweather), all contributed memorable cameo moments. While Attwood brought his own comic flair, Highton’s won the Merryweather competition!

The evening’s crowning glory came courtesy of James Nicholas as Dame Dully Dally. Nicholas delivered a tour de force, leaving it all on stage, with physical comedy and vocal prowess that had the audience in stitches. His energy was palpable, and moments such as the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” bed scene provided peak panto hilarity. The perfectly pitched double entendres and big musical numbers, particularly “I want to break free”, showcased his talents and ensured the Dame remained a standout character. How many faces of make-up did Nicholas sweat through! Incredible sir, just incredible!

The Ellesmere Devils’ Pantomime Society have once again demonstrated their prowess in delivering pantomimes that captivate audiences of all ages. Their formula for success is evident, and with their own brand of magic, they created a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable evening. Here’s to another 25 years of panto excellence – bravo, one and all!

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