Sleeping Beauty

As a new member to our NODA West Midlands District 8 family, this was my first visit to Romsley Pantomime Group for their production of ‘Sleeping Beauty’. Romsley have a long history in pantomime production stretching back to 1962 and it was obvious from stepping across the threshold at St. Kenelm’s Church Hall that the love and affection that the company generate was palpable and utterly justified from the opening number onwards. The sheer delight and enthusiasm from the performers flowed into the auditorium ensuring that the eagerly anticipatory audience were going to have a great night.

Andrew Potter’s script was very cleverly put together and suited the characters and those playing them superbly. Lisa Lilley’s Sleeping Beauty was delightful and beautifully played opposite Prince Richard, played by Talulla Lilley made a great pairing that was taken to the hearts of the audience. Nikki Parry’s fiendishly wicked Malevolent toyed with the audiences affections not knowing whether to hiss and boo her or marvel at her amazing characterisation and tremendous audience interactions and asides. The three fairies – with very up to mark names – Alexa, Siri and Google played by Angel Lane, Nathan McDuffus and Stephanie Cadwallader were great fun and kept the action moving, especially Nathan whose stage presence was riveting. Luke Mills’ Dame Norma Snoze¸ with a nod to Ruth Jones’ Nessa, went down a storm with the audience who loved his portrayal, as he relished every possible comedic opportunity. Andrew’s direction (and writing) allowed for some excellent supporting characters giving them the opportunity to shine including Michael Willis and Lois Swift as King Steven and Queen Leanna, and a further nod to the IT industry with Elong and Musky, Malevolent’s henchmen, played by Tilly Morris and Jan Wynne, Martin Cadwallader’s comic Muddles, Barrington Kerr as the Dragon and a Courtier and the Master of Ceremonies, Steve Swift but by far the audience favourite of the night was Bernard Pridden as the butler , Chives, obviously a well-loved and respected member of the group giving a delightfully scatty and comic performance – great fun.

Given the restrictions of the stage Paula Shanian as Stage Manager with Assistants, Baz Kerr and Claire Ingram alongside great use of lighting and sound by Chris Gowling and Isaiah Connolly achieved great success adding to the enjoyment of the evening.

Jack Middleton as Musical Director and Pianist achieved great results in some great numbers and accompanying incidental music and being in full view of the audience and a vital part of the action.

Thanks to everyone at Romsley Pantomime Group for their very kind invitation and warm welcome, it was lovely to meet you all and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

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