Witchford Amateur Dramatics Society
Mother Goose 2009
| Review: Witchford Amateur Dramatic Society’s pantomime “Mother Goose”. Who said nothing ever happens in Witchford? A large proportion of the population has been working very hard over the past months. This was clearly evident in this year’s fantastic production of the pantomime “Mother Goose” at Witchford Village College. Characters came to life, filling the stage with warm hearted drama and humour; streams of vibrant dancers and choruses had the audience tapping to the beat while the beautiful story of Mother Goose and her trials unfolded magically. Credit crunch, cold dark winter and depressing news in the media were swept away with this marvelous show. Demon Discontent (Adrian Peberdy) battled with Fairy Happiness (Claire Skilbeck) for the soul of Mother Goose (Steve Barker). At her side were her eldest son Colin (Katharine Hardman) and Silly Billy her youngest son (Neil Pilling). In a charming plot full of dastardly deeds and heart warming resolutions other characters interwove their influences. These included the squire (Ian Roberts), his niece Jill (Helen Williamson), Priscilla, the golden-egg laying goose (Jacob Leyland), the Naughty Pair (Claire Mead and Sarah Boor), the blacksmith (Keith Gallois), the Duke and Duchess of Chatteris (Jimmy Carter and Gillian Hardman), King of Gooseland (Ian Roberts) and even Dr Who (Joe Robbins). Director and script writer Ivan Green, Producer Luise Carter, Musical Director Jonathan Carter, Music coordinator Naomi D’Cunha and choreographer Lisa Barker certainly knew what they were doing. This was one of the finest productions I have seen. With frequent contributions from the audience, Demon Discontent snarled from his flame-red costume representing all that is evil and upsetting. Shimmering in gold, Fairy Happiness wove her magic. A heart warming romance developed between Colin and Jill, their love songs were mesmerizing. The audience rocked with laughter at the lively antics of the Naughty Pair. Their arrival up the aisle of the hall in a custom built car, plastering traffic tickets on the unsuspecting members of the audience was just the beginning of a wonderful series of hilarious incidents. Their charisma and duo act were unforgettable. Silly Billy managed to give just the right balance of silliness and seriousness in his role to have a positive pivotal influence. One of the most difficult prominent parts must have been Priscilla. Dressed in a wonderful costume, Jacob could not be seen by the audience but he nevertheless created a lovable character with his wordless communciations and the charming movements of his wings and feet. One of the features that especially helped make this production come alive were the series of exhilarating, energetic and convincing choruses and dances supported by a wonderful band of musicians. The Paupers, Zombies and Beautiful Girls, the Adult Chorus, Ballroom Attendees, Rockers, Super Heroes and Moneyettes filled the stage with energy and style. It was amazing how so many people could move so well and so swiftly in the area provided. The group of little ones singing the lullaby and the goslings were major contributors to the ‘ah’ factor. Jonathan Carter (keyboard), John Rodford (guitar), Sam Peckham (bass) and Trevor Carter (drums) kept a constant rhythmic flow of music that was sheer intoxication. The skill and vitality of the group added to the sense of unfettered exhilaration that permeated the performance. Such a performance would not have been possible without an effective team behind the action. A carefully designed programme with clear pictures, a highly efficient Front of House team and box office and scenery and stage props suppliers all made their mark. This production had especially effective costumes and make up and sound and lighting and smoke producers all were invaluable contributors. What a wonderful way to start the year! Roll on the next production in May/June. For info contact: helenwilliamson1@btinternet.com Rosemary Westwell |
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