WONDERLAND THE MUSICAL - Kids On Stage

This group is fabulous; not in terms of their musical theatre ability, but rather their effort, application and will to succeed. I can only congratulate all concerned on a truly superb ‘team’ production. Their rehearsal period is only short, and they can only use their venue for one hour every week. Taking this factor into account, this performance was exceptional. What a shame it was the only performance…

There were 23 children of all ages on stage; playing 32 parts, some for the first time, and, because of that, they will remember this occasion for many years to come.

‘WONDERLAND THE MUSICAL’ is based loosely on Lewis Carroll’s ALICE stories, the characters of which were almost instantly recognisable and, in most cases, well characterised (first night nerves aside). The costumes were fabulous, and the backdrops very colourful and indicative of the scenes they were portraying. Thoughtful props and scenery also played a big part in the story, as did the lighting and sound.

Produced by Alan Tompkins and Joan Fothergill; ably assisted by James Archer and William Metcalf, this favourite tale was brought beautifully to life; aided by some lovely singing, acting and movement by all concerned. Joan also conducted and was joined in the pit by Gareth Miller on keyboards and Peter Forster on drums. Well done.

It is worth noting at this point, that due to two of the principals playing Alice dropping out at the last moment, the excellent Lisa Nugent stood in and played the two older Alice parts exceptionally well. I know it is wrong to single out anyone in particular for praise, but she obviously deserved it. I’m sure the group is eternally grateful she was able to come to their rescue. I also have to mention Lucy Bennett as the smaller Alice, whose acting has developed extremely well. Jazmin Mill was also superb as The Queen of Hearts. She played her part very ably. There was also some tremendous support from Angus Nugent as The Mad Hatter and Daisy Stephenson in both of her roles – March Hare and Mock Turtle. The whole cast were exceptional… well done to all.

I was sad to read that some of the older ‘Kids’ were taking ‘early retirement’ due to reaching the age of 14 years (far too young !), so to those who have provided this reviewer with some memorable moments over the last few years, I wish them well and trust they will continue to entertain us with either the adult group, or some other like-minded society at some time in the future. They have been given a great platform from which they can propel themselves.

Many congratulations to all of the Team for their hard work and another successful production, also for raising funds for St Oswald’s Hospice and the Northern Counties School..

I had a wonderful afternoon’s entertainment. Thank you for the invitation and for the interval refreshments.

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