The Sleeping Beauty

This was a colourful and energetic performance by youngsters many of whom were performing with the group for the first time.  The show is a favourite and cannot fail to entertain with its story of a baby princess cursed to die at 18 by pricking her finger on a spinning wheel and saved by the Fairy who alters the spell so she sleeps for 100 years until she is awakened by a kiss from a prince. The main roles were carried out with flair. Kieran West, so convincing as female Queen Dorothy, sailed into the part as dame in confident and engaging style delivering well timed punchlines. Cameron Robertson as her husband King Norbert was more self-effacing but true to character.  Ellie Marshall made a delightful and realistic Princes Aurora who sang beautiful duets with her equally talented Prince, Daniele Shanks, both at ease in their roles.  Erin Broadley as Fairy Peaceful had a calming effect on every entrance while Ella Mae Prow raised the temperature as the villain Caraboose both in her dominant command of the stage and in her striking costume. Ably performed  were the supporting roles of the likeable go between and general gofer Billy, Hannah Kritzinger , and the two  catlike cats: the loveable Kitty, Cayla Rushford, and the more wicked but just as engaging Spindleshanks, performed by Lauren Blaney (alternating with Jamie Lang). Beautifully costumed Fairies were a delight and they and the chorus sang and executed their routines with care and grace.  Good direction was clear to see, costumes were colourful, music was well chosen and movement in capable hands. The scenery was apt – the kitchen scene with the rats was a hit and a hoot - and sound and lighting very good.  It is good to see changes in the cast showing the strength of the group.  Well Done to all involved.

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