In her programme notes the chairman hopes that we will enjoy this latest offering from the Chrysanthemums so I am pleased to record that if anyone did not enjoy it I would be extremely amazed. This was traditional style pantomime at it's best. Directors Julie Delaney and Graham Leigh did a splendid job producing a show which gave the audience a rich abundance of Laughter, Music and Dance. One of the strongest factors in this society is it's long association with bringing young talent to the stage. No less than 74 young people were involved in the choregraphy, a challenge to Choreographer Rebecca Gardner and in the words of one famous old hoofer "did'nt she do well". The age of these dancers ranged from tiny tots to tallish teenagers and not only their terpsichorean skills but their general stage discipline was much to be commended. Graham Leigh came up with a good script incorporating some new features, and his performance alongside Jed Flowerday as Grabit and Snatchit proved more than popular with both children and adults.
The picnic scene was great. Jed and Graham both come with a strong theatrical pedigree and it showed in their performance. Granny Trott gave Terry Davies an opportunity to show "here is nothing like a Dame" where it is done well. Phil Gilroy as the sheriff got his share of boos which is as it should be; a villain if ever there was one and Luke Bennet in his first villainous role as the Wolf showed that you don't have too many years in age to portray such a part. Another young man Jake Mathot showed he not so simple in playing Simple Simon, a fine debut. Lauren Wood was Red Riding Hood the night I saw it ans showed the value in bringing young talent to the fore. I unfortunately did not see Emma Jackson who alternated in the role but am sure she would have proved equally successful. Jessica Leigh played the Fairy and I am presuming she is another in the long line of that family who have served the Chrysanthemums so well; if so she didn't let them down. No Pantomine would be complete without it's Heroine and Hero and Leanne Sweeney as Maid Marian and Charlotte Delaney as Robin Hood both gave strong performances. The pair are good singers and perhaps an additional song could have been justified. "Robin" was well supported by "Will Scarlet" Emily Beresford another youngster, who came over strongly and must have got fit from running after the wolf.
I must say a special word for the costumes which were excellent throughout; a great tribute to Thelma Warrington, Ann Williams and Jenny Plant; Costumes for Red Riding Hood and the Dame were the work of Sarah Jackson and Sheila Weaver. M.D Norman Scott (was he in the 1920 production?) was his usual brilliant self. This show is the culmination of a great team effort which has always been a feature of the society Well done to all concerned; I am sure your esteemed Hon Patron Ken Dodd would have been proud of you. This time next year.
Budge