Reviews

If you are looking for a good example of a village pantomime, then visit Lytchett Matravers Village Hall during the run of this new version of Cinderella. It is a typical production of its kind, with local references, most of the audience knowing each other (and those on stage) and village children playing their part as chorus members and in minor roles. It is good in the other sense as well: within the limitations of facilities and talent, it is a slick, well-performed show that is thoroughly enjoyed by the audience and by the cast as well. Castle Players have

Pantovia is in turmoil! Prince Rupert, heir to the throne, has fled the land and the evil Count De Cash is ruler! However a dashing young man turns up with his butler to try to solve the crisis. But what can he do and why does his butler keep him close by? Will Pantovia once again become a bustling town or is it doomed forever? Bishopstoke Players have produced an entertaining pantomime under the watchful eye of debut director Samantha Evans; with apparently new talent both on stage and behind the scenes, the potential is certainly there to develop. Some

Ayckbourn’s play was originally written and performed in 2002 and has since become part of a trilogy that goes under the collective heading ‘Things That Go Bump’. First hint … and that’s all you’re getting of that! Given the nature of this play, I shall proceed with circumspection since a careless word or reference could serve as a spoiler for anyone attending one of the remaining three performances. Located in the rather run-down, unloved garden of the Chester family, the set is very effectively realised by Paul Marcus, Steve and Richard Harker’s design, which includes part of a tennis court

Stephanie, a highly accomplished violinist, has been passionate about music since a very early age. When she is diagnosed with the debilitating condition of multiple sclerosis, she faces an uncertain future as her ability to play at the highest level, or indeed any level at all, is cruelly ripped away from her. Through a series of interviews with her psychiatrist, we gain an insight into her childhood, her seemingly golden marriage to another skilled musician and her all-embracing aspiration – to create music. This two-hander depicts throughout the six therapeutic sessions the various stages of grief. Here it is because

Written for television, with music by Richard Rodgers and a book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, this show is based upon the fairy tale Cinderella but with Middle America very much in mind. The story is basically the same, in which a young woman is in a life of servitude to her stepmother and self-centred stepsisters and dreams of a better life. With the help of her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella is transformed into a princess and finds her prince. It was originally broadcast live on 31 March 1957 as a vehicle for Julie Andrews, who played the title role.

The Players’ annual panto is always an eagerly anticipated event, but for various reasons it has been a few years since I actually managed to see it for myself. That was remedied on Saturday afternoon – and wow, was I impressed. Matthew Smith, returning to the company after a ten-year absence, has taken on the director’s mantle and, to my mind, hasn’t put a foot wrong. Incidentally, the panto back in 2007 (when Matt was Chairman) was also Dick Whittington, directed by Matt’s wife, Georgina (current Chairman), so there may be a little competition afoot. Oh yes there may. Anyway,