Treasure Island

‘Curtain Up’ and once again a stunning set when the curtains opened. On this small stage this certainly is an achievement and Stage Manager Ken Branson controlled and changed it with ease with the help of his stalwart crew. Larry Lampert and Carolynn Crawford are to be commended for their wonderful painting skills in producing such an animated colourful set which was ably constructed by Ken, Alex and Simon.  Costumes were authentic and attractive and looked good on the cast. All the little extras the cast added to their costumes were really good and all added to a wonderful visual effect. Well done costume ladies, Anne Swailes, Claire Davidson and Anne Feiven.

The audience anticipated a good evening of entertainment from this well supported group of local talent and they were not disappointed. John Mawer wrote this pantomime, ‘Treasure Island’ and it showed off his amazing sense of humour and was hilarious. He has such wonderful ideas and he works through improvisation and therefore the cast have a huge input under his direction. It was a very funny script and had the audience in stitches from beginning to end. Clever use of additional touches by including puppets was such fun. They were superb and were constructed by Carolynn and John.  The ‘Star’ scene was also another good inclusion and all added to this excellent production.

A great choice of music was well directed by James Tait and he kept all the musical numbers going at a lively pace. This pantomime had all the elements of a traditional show as well as a few surprises and the audience loved it. The enthusiasm in the show was evident throughout, the chorus were well rehearsed, danced well,  sang gustily and looked good too. The principal line up showed talent and versatility and all were confident in their roles.

Jim (Amy Cowan) gave a polished performance and Jane (Kirsty Familton) complimented the partnership. They were well matched and both acted and sang extremely well together. Neptuna (Mike Jevons) arrived with his usual aplomb and what a fine dame he makes. He connects with the audience immediately and causes mayhem and his comic timing is super. A very funny man indeed! Long John Silver (Robert Familton) gave a very slick performance; as we expect from Robert. He is always an extremely good character actor and this year was no exception especially as he handled having one leg so easily, a not so easy task! Squire (Sue Wood) as ever gave a strong performance and was perfect for the part, another stalwart of the society who rises to perfect every part she plays. Bill Bones/Ben Gunge (John Mawer) was just the tops. What a fine character actor John is. He is a delight to watch and is so natural on stage entering into the full spirit of the characters he plays.  There are far too many named characters to mention, but they are all to be congratulated in being confident in their roles, which they carried out with flair and competence.

Ah me ‘Hearties” what a splendid night of community entertainment you gave us from start to finish. You never seem to amaze me as to how, on such a small stage you can create magical amateur entertainment of the highest standard. John Mawer is to be congratulated for getting you all to work so enthusiastically under his  way of direction, his clever creative vision and use of his excellent script.  From puppeteers to principals and chorus etc. you should be proud of your achievements. David Madgwick and committee, well done for continuing this wonderful tradition of pantomime in this small and rural community! May you continue to flourish.

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