The Bonkers Pirates of Banana Island

“The Bonkers Pirates of Banana Island” was performed by 21 members of the junior branch of Katsact aged between 4 and 10 years. 

The storyline devised by some of the students and their support team, was written by Katherine Foxworthy and promoted the opportunity for all children, regardless of stage skills, educational needs or a lack of confidence, the opportunity to shine and even exceed their own expectations. 

Maria, the main character in the story, was confidently played by 8-year-old Kayleigh Clark. Her stage presence was outstanding and vocally her musicality was excellent. I particularly enjoyed “On Your Way Home.”

Riley Maynard was well cast as Pirate Captain Bumble. He gave a lively performance and characterization was good. 

Isabella Howe gave us a different interpretation as Pirate Captain Rumble. Dialogue was well paced and pauses were good. 

Eliza-May Collins-Boyede and Elli Maudsley worked well together as Maria’s friends, Skip and Jessie. Voices were clear and diction very good indeed. “Count on Me” was great. Well done.

Jack Knight-Evans played the role of Chief with conviction. You understood what your character was all about and you played Maria’s father with feeling. I enjoyed your performance very much.

The company of villagers and pirates all worked well together, and I thought your costumes were very colourful. Singing was good and I could see that everyone was trying their best.

The set was well designed and executed, with palm trees, a central firepit, treasure chest and cooking pot all positioned appropriately. The two pirate ships positioned either side of the stage allowed the cast to perform on different levels but still gave them room to move about the stage with ease.

Positioned up stage was a large video screen. Throughout the performance cartoon special effects were projected on the screen to enhance the story and this worked brilliantly. Well done to the technical manager Reuben Harvey. 

Special mention should go to some of the senior members of Katsact (The senior support super stars) whom this young cast could go to if they felt they needed extra support at any time. Each Super Star is allocated to a student or small group of students and they would support their charges throughout the performance if necessary.

I enjoyed this production very much and it was a pleasure to see so many smiling faces and meeting you all after the show. I look forward to seeing you all again at your next production. 

Thank you for looking after me again and filling me in on the background behind Katsact. 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.