Treasure Island

My first Pantomime of the season, as always it commences with St Matthew's Theatrical Society.  This time with their NODA script filled with an abundance of nautical songs that transported us to the Island where they search for treasure.

The main characters are the Hawkins family, along with Squire Trelawny and his daughter, Ma Hawkins (Drew McCloskey) spends her time chasing the Squire (Nick Clenton).  The love interest Jim Hawkins (Victoria Taylor) and the Squire's daughter Felicity (Leah Paige-Hirst) had good stage presence with strong voices that blended well together.

Comedy duo Billy Brass (Bethany Ellis) and Nicky Knuckle (Joseph Simpson) had a great time chasing around the stage with verve and vigour.  We had a modern Fairy Godmother (Molly Haynes) spending her time on her mobile phone, and the boo-able role this year fell to Long John Silver (Nathaniel Hyde).  Captain Corker'un (Rachel O'Connor) this time round was a girl dressed as a man.

Good effects as the ship ran aground and the cast had to swim for the shore and crawl on to the beach.  As they crawled on to the beach we had our "James Bond" moment with Robinson Crusoe (Jack Fitt) along with his Girl Friday, also Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.  A welcome return from Producer Rachel Harrison who kept popping up throughout with comic endeavours as a Parrott.

The Haunted Caverns were well presented with effective UV lighting and the whole Pantomime benefited from really good scenery and excellent backcloths.

The finale took place in Crusoe's Casino on the tropical Island, all beaufifully costumed in sparkling pink and orange, with Ma Hawkins dressed as a Pineapple.  So I thought no snow this year, but "Oh Yes There Was".

Congratulations once again.

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