The Panto Players have been providing fun and entertainment for several years at the IW Community Club in Cowes, and I’m ashamed to say I have never been to one of their shows – I now know what I’ve been missing!

This year their pantomime is Rapunzel, the story of the girl who ‘let down her hair’ to be rescued by the handsome prince. In this version, poor Rapunzel has been imprisoned in the tower by her evil aunt, Gothel – but don’t worry, in true panto fashion she is restored to her loving parents for the traditional happy ever after. And on the way, we meet some memorable and hilarious characters.

Rapunzel herself is played beautifully by Chloe, whose lovely singing voice is put to great use in some of the show’s songs, whether solo, duet and full chorus. Charley, as Quinn, her rescuer, provides her with a worthy companion and us with the perfect singing, thigh-slapping leading boy. There’s a lovely turn too from Jamie-Leigh as Doyle, Quinn’s friend…or at least that’s what Quinn thinks…

Every panto needs its dame, and I have a feeling this is not the first time Malcolm has donned the traditional big dress, heels and wigs to play the role – Dame Trott commands the stage every time she appears, and she’s a natural at the funny asides and audience interaction. Just as funny is Harold the jester, played by Tom – even if most of his jokes are groan-worthy…..by design.

Rapunzel’s poor parents, the King and Queen, played by Rob and Alison, seem helpless in the face of the King’s manipulative sister, and Bev makes the absolute most of playing the baddie, Gothel, intent on taking over the kingdom. Gothel declaims ‘It’s so much fun being evil’ – and I get the impression Bev would agree. The audience certainly enjoys booing her! Her sidekick Buboe matches her onstage energy – Keith, revelling in the more disgusting aspects of the character, also reveals a great rocking vocal ability.

There are more undesirable elements in the castle, in the persons of Crevice (Sharon) and Retch (Michael) ably supported by the wonderfully named Pus, Phlegm and Squat (Summer, Owen and Emilia). For such young performers the last three are amazingly confident in everything they do – every word spoken is heard; singing and dancing are spot on – the group’s future is safe in their hands.

Also impressive is young Theo accompanying Tamsin as guards and minions – another bright star of the future. Nadine tries to keep things together – and finally succeeds – as the fairy; and she and Tom have clearly kept things together through the rehearsals as they directed the show. A mention must go too to Rachel, Sharon and Matt for their backstage support, Julie and Jan front of house, as well as the team who put together the costumes and set for the show.

As the applause at the end of the show demonstrated, the audience enjoyed Rapunzel just as much as I did. Now looking forward to seeing what The Panto Players do next year….