When it comes to community theatre they say no one can do it better! Walking into a packed out hall, everyone in fine spirits and festive cheer ready for a good time, I had a feeling that ‘tonight was going to be a good night’ and it certainly was!

The curtain opens to all the ensemble on stage and, as the curtain opened, it was evident we were full steam ahead and in for a treat. We were welcomed to Nursery Rhyme Land in full colour and volume!

The songs were strong, accompanied by George King on keys and David Harrison on drums, and choreographed to give the maximum impact within the limited space they had! Everyone looked like they were fully invested and enjoying themselves.

Leading the cast was Summer Plumley, as Red Riding Hood, she had a bounce in her walk/skip, always smiling and sang beautifully, solo and with Billy, played by Bea Holmes. They made a great pair and seemed to connect in a way that made their story believable. Billy, a woodcutter, is joined by his father, played in this performance by Alexandra Knight! Alex was hilarious. Everything you wanted and more!

We meet the big bad wolf, played evilly by Valerie Rezin, who seemed extremely comfortable in her role! She played well to the audience and allowed them to interact with her of which she got a lot of boo-hisses throughout and you could tell … she revelled in it!

The fairy, played by Sheran Sadler-Ward, was a perfect fit for the fairy however was totally out-shone by The Fairy Apprentice, Ava Simpkins, who just melted everyone’s heart! She passed her training and no longer needed her L plates – great job Ava!

There’s so many great cameos with the 3 pigs Lawrence, Llewellyn and Bowen (I’ll give you a second) played by Deana Turnbull, Chantal Eagles and Lauren Medway, who was clearly having a ball on stage. Granny Hood played by Elaine Smith who got more than bargained for while exploring looking for the Yeti!

Jack and Jill also made an appearance and offered some perfectly timed gags and audience participation. Played by Joanna Westwood and Izzy Bishop this was a comedy pairing that was great to watch.

But the real star was Red’s mother, Dame Hood, played by Lewis Pavey! He was absolutely outrageous! What a stellar performance! From experience, it’s hard to keep that energy up throughout the whole show, but Dame Hood kept her audience captivated and hanging off her every word! Bravo!

Alexandra and Vikki Plumley, choreographer, should be happy and proud with such a successful panto! A sell out performance, every night, and such support!

Well done to everyone involved! I’ll be back next year!! 

Reviewed by Rob Bingham