Welcome to our Spring 2026 edition Newsletter
Well what a start to the year! Cinderella 2026 – our 50th Anniversary Pantomime was a sell out production of nine performances.
The NODA representative David Brammer attended – he is new to Loddon Players – as we are now part of a much larger area that incorporates much of Norfolk including Norwich along with Suffolk from Lowestoft to Southwold.
His review was highly complementary – here is an example:
“With an opening number featuring most of the cast and the incredible Funky Feet dancers, who managed to perform some complex moves and lifts both in the opening number and throughout the show, the production was energetic, colourful, and delightful. I was amazed at what was achieved creatively in the small space that was available.“
His full review can be found here
We were delighted to include Maureen Larkin and her long-time Dame partner – Anthony Bunting in cameo recorded sections, together with the BBC’s Amelia Reynolds who provided a studio anchor – role for Happily Ever After Radio.
This was a traditional pantomime but modernised to be fresh and relevant for the present day.
This favourite of all pantomimes – was our 50th Anniversary production and mirrored our first ever pantomime which took place in January 1976.
John Harris a former teacher at what is now Hobart High School, who wrote, produced, directed and starred in our first pantomime Cinderella, performed in January 1976 attended our first Saturday matinee performance and gave a short speech looking back at that time.
The feedback we have had from those who saw this production has been universally positive.
Many of the cast and some members of the public saw a special showing of the pantomime video by Loddon Cinema on 20th March. It was a magical show – one befitting of our 50th Anniversary.
Here is our latest production page:
Looking back over 2025
Our 2025 Pantomime – The Pied Piper – was nominated for Best Pantomime – here is a link to our production page
Nominated for NODA Best Panto Award The Pied Piper 2025 – Loddon Players
We are extremely pleased to have received this nomination. This is a hat-trick of nominations since the end of COVID, with our 2023 pantomime, Mother Goose eventually named the winner.
Our summer production was “Keep Calm & Carry On” and took place on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th June at the Lecture Hall George Lane. It was a reflective celebration of VE Day.
The feedback we had from the audience who attended during the heatwave on those two nights was full of praise.
Here is our web page for more details and images of the production.
Upcoming Events
The committee has decided this year, instead of doing a summer production, to hold a number of one off events.
Singing Workshop
We will be holding a singing workshop on 9th May at the Lecture Hall, George Lane.
Further details of this and other upcoming events can be found here
Look out for more announcements on our website and via social media..
Funky Feet
They have a new website – see below for more details.
At the end of Cinderella’s run, we said an emotional “au revoir” to the multi-talented Tilly Bell in which she played the title role.
She started dancing at the age of four and then appeared in her first pantomime as a seven year old. Finally as she turned eighteen, she played our Cinders – a role she was destined to play.
She is now off, like Dick Whittington, to London to make her fortune in performing arts at one of the UK premier colleges. She goes with our love and best wishes. Success is 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration and its been a privilege to watch her successful journey.
Social Events
We took a break before, during and after Cinderella which finished on 24th January.
Latest and Upcoming Events
We shall be holding a quiz night for Members, family and Friends on 1st May 2026 at the Lecture Hall, George Lane, Loddon
Check out this and other events the Social Diary section below:-
Latest PANTOMIME
50th Anniversary Pantomime Cinderella
Loddon Players marked our 50th anniversary year in the most fitting way imaginable—with a joyful return to where it all began. This year’s pantomime, Cinderella, was the very first show staged by the group in January 1976, having formed to undertake that production as Loddon Pantomime Players in 1975. Revisiting it half a century later created a powerful sense of continuity and celebration.
Audiences were welcomed with a special anniversary programme, filled with photographs and press clippings from that original production. Reflections from founding members Joan Evans and John Harris offered a touching reminder of how the idea of a village pantomime first took shape, and how it grew into the thriving community group we know today.
The show opened with particularly appropriate recorded introductions from Maureen Larkin, whose daughter appeared in the 1976 production and who herself first performed with the Players in 1977, and long‑time Dame – Anthony Bunting. Their voices set a warm, nostalgic tone. A modern flourish came from the BBC’s Amelia Reynolds, appearing as the anchor for Happily Ever After Radio, returning again in Act Two alongside Maureen and Anthony.
The story was guided by Jody Chapman as a sparkling Fairy Godmother, her warmth and vocal talent shining throughout. She was soon joined by the brilliant and irrepressible Jane Rainer as Buttons, supported by his comic Fly brothers ‑ Zip and Velcro—played with great energy by Johnny Green and Sam Bailey.
The arrival of Cinderella—portrayed by the multi‑talented Tilly Bell—was met with delight. Her performance captured every emotional beat of the role: hope, fear, joy, and the magic of transformation. Her scenes with Buttons were especially touching, and her musical numbers were beautifully delivered.
A recurring comic highlight came from the Baron – David Bingham – whose frozen‑scene appearances—battling seagulls somewhere at sea—were greeted with increasingly enthusiastic cheers culminating when he made his final triumphant arrival.
The Ugly Sisters, Salmonella and Listeria, played by brothers Lewis and Joe Joseph, were a brilliantly grotesque pair. Lewis made an impressive debut, while Joe stepped confidently into his first major role. They were joined by the fearsome Baroness, Cinderella’s wicked stepmother, played with relish by Vicki McDicken.
Prince Charming’s loyal companion Dandini, played by Janna Sapey, provided a lively foil to the prince himself—portrayed with great charm by Gemma Buskell, every inch the perfect principal boy. The King and Queen, played by Alasdair and Linda Skepelhorn, added further humour and warmth.
Musical direction from Alan Cant, supported by vocal coach Adam Kellingray‑Williamson, ensured strong singing, both from the principal cast and also the chorus of—Dawn Cartright, Ana Harper‑Bourne, Pauline Mason and members of Funky Feet.
The Funky Feet dancers, choreographed by the amazing Miss Vicky Codling, delivered outstanding performances from both juniors and seniors. Some members also played roles – Jared Bollington as The Herald brought strength and capability. Darci-Rose Sayer and Katie Bell played a couple of the wanna-be brides for Charming and with huge energy, were involved in all of the many dances.
Costumes, organised by Pauline Mason with Nina Hunnisett, Ann Lumley, and Debbie Codling, were stunning. Scenary and props were designed by Jackie Bingham and built by Alan Harper‑Bourne, Ana Harper‑Bourne, and Jackie.
Written and produced by Steve Burton, assisted by Ana Harper‑Bourne and David Bingham. Directed by Jackie Bingham assisted by Sarah Colman, this anniversary production captured everything that makes Loddon Players special—community spirit, creativity, and a shared love of live theatre. Here’s to the next 50 years.
The History of Buttons In Cinderella
Buttons is one of the most iconic figures in pantomime, yet he doesn’t appear in the original Cinderella fairy tale. Instead, he is a uniquely British invention, created during the 19th century as pantomime evolved from its commedia dell’arte roots into the lively, joke‑filled family entertainment we know today.
As pantomime became more structured and story‑driven, producers and script-writers began adding comic characters to appeal to audiences who loved slapstick, wordplay, and audience participation. Buttons emerged as the “comic servant” or page boy—his name inspired by the decorative buttons on his traditional uniform. From the start, he was designed to be the audience’s friend on stage: warm, funny, and always ready with a joke or a cheeky aside.
One of Buttons’ defining traits is his unrequited love for Cinderella. This storyline does not exist in earlier versions of the tale but was introduced to give the comic lead a more emotional role. His affection is always portrayed as loyal and heartfelt, adding a touch of poignancy to the otherwise light‑hearted chaos. Audiences feel for him, even as they laugh with him.
Buttons also became central to pantomime’s interactive style. He leads call‑and‑response routines, encourages sing‑alongs, and often narrates parts of the story. His direct connection with the audience helps create the warm, communal atmosphere that makes pantomime so beloved.
Over the decades, many well‑known performers—from music‑hall comedians to modern TV personalities—have shaped the role, each bringing their own style. Because Buttons isn’t tied to a strict historical version of the story, he remains wonderfully adaptable, able to shift with the times while keeping his essential charm.
Today, Buttons is considered indispensable to Cinderella pantomimes. A role that can be filled perfectly by both male and female actors.
In our latest version, Buttons was played by the wonderful Jane Rainer. She absolutely embodied the heart, humour, and humanity that the role requires, which defines panto at its best.
Upcoming Events
Singing Workshop 9th May 2026
Our vocal coach, sound technician and on occasions Musical Director – Adam Kellingray-Williamson – who is also Musical Director for Chet Valley Voices and for Spotlight Musical Theatre Beccles will be holding a singing workshop on 9th May at the Lecture Hall, George Lane. Further updates regarding timings on the day will follow
50th Anniversary Open Day 13th June 2026
We will be holding an Open Day on 13th June at the Lecture Hall, George Lane Loddon – Showcasing Loddon Players in our 50th Anniversary Year 2025/26.
It is planned to be an all day event 11am to 4pm,
Photographs, press cuttings, costumes and other memorabilia will be on show.
It will include afternoon tea.
Watch out for more details on our website and on social media.
,
Loddon And Chedgrave Arts Festival
Loddon and Chedgrave Arts Festival
Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th July
We have agreed to take part and have a slot on Friday 3rd at 8.00pm to showcase the Loddon Players and what we offer in the community.
Full details have yet to be agreed but is likely to be an extension of the Open Day, with possible cameo performances.
Watch for more information on our website, and on social media.
Movement Workshop - date to be confirmed
We are planning a movement workshop in the summer.
Watch out for more information on our website, and on social media.
Local Theatre
Theatre Royal
The Maddermarket Theatre
Whats on
Watton Players
There show A Night at the Musicals is on for one night only on Saturday 16th May.
Venue Queens Hall Watton.
Tickets £12 adults, £8 for children
Lowestoft
Wisbech - The Secret Garden
Gorleston Pavillion
NODA
The National Scene
Loddon Players have been members of NODA for many years. We get support for many issues including legal and welfare matters.
NODA nationally run events such as summer schools and training workshops.
NODA in the EAST
NODA has a regional structure and we fall into that area in NODA East Region. (5 and 6 now combined)
Our representatives normally visit us to watch and report on our performances – here is their report for Mother Goose which has won their Best Panto Award 2023!
Their latest review is of Treasure Island 2024
We are very proud to say that this was nominated for Best Panto Award 2024! Although we did not win this time, the competition even to be nominated is fierce and we are up against much larger communities and their theatre groups.
Here is their recently published review of The Pied Piper on our web page
Finally here is their review of Cinderella 2026
This pantomime was also nominated for the Best Panto Category.
Maureen's Moments
Maureen our new Life President is taking a break
It’s our 50th Anniversary Year
Maureen recently became our second Life President to sit alongside our first – Joan Evans.
In accepting the position of Life President, Maureen’s involvement with Loddon Players continues. She took a decision to stand down as a committee member at the same time.
As Life President she is able to attend committee meetings at any time. Her place on our nine person committee has been taken by Sarah Colman – who returns after a period of absence.
In our 50th Year, it was very important to her friends in Loddon Players that, if possible, she could play a role in Cinderella on this milestone year. It was so lovely that our Producer Steve and Director Jackie were able to include her and her long-time Dame partner Anthony (Titch) Bunting.
Maureen Larkin’s remarkable journey with The Loddon Players first began when her daughter Michelle, took part in the first ever pantomime – Cinderella.
In 1976, Maureen congratulated John Harris after the pantomime saying that she would love to have been up there on stage.. During the following summer he came to her house with a script and said he had already written a part it for her in Dick Whittington! – the next production in January 1977.
Thus began her personal journey with Loddon Players that continues today. Nearly five decades of performance, leadership, and unwavering dedication to community theatre.
I cover much of her journey in the last edition of the Newsletter
I shall finish with some more links to productions she was in. If you get a chance, read those with reviews by the local press – they stand testament to her extraordinary talent as a comedic actress.
Sleeping Beauty – 1978 – Loddon Players
Mother Goose – 1980 – Loddon Players
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs – 1988 – Loddon Players
Dick Whittington – 1996 – Loddon Players
Cinderella – 2009 – Loddon Players
DB
Latest News
Funky Feet have a new website
Here is a link to the Gallery
We have to raise at least £10,000 to cover the cost of a new dance floor following their enforced departure from Chedgrave.
Here is a link to our facebook page which includes an unforgettable day out visit to Britains Got Talent!
Dancing Through Life
The show for 2025 was Dancing Through Life and performed on 11th October 2025 – two performance 1pm and 5pm
From the tiniest dancers to seasoned adults, this spectacular show was an unforgettable adventure through Alice in Wonderland, transporting you into a land of magic and curiosity. The journey continued with dazzling performances inspired by beloved musicals, and featured guest artists from local schools.
It was performed at
Langley School, Alston Centre, Chedgrave,
NR14 6BJ
Recent Events
We hold regular social meets ups around the area.
We also publicize and on occasion organize tickets to see local shows that our members appear in from time to time.
All current members will receive an email with a link to the newsletter. It will also be available to read on our website.
If you wish to take part in members social events please email us at:
We took a break before, during and after Cinderella which finished on 24th January.
Latest Event
On 20th March we organised for Loddon Cinema to show the video of Cinderella 2026. It was a brilliant evening and a chance for those who could make it from the cast and crew to watch a performance, for once, from in front of the proscenium arch. We had some members of the public join us who had not been able to come to see it live. All were highly complimentary.
Upcoming Events
Many members have tickets to watch our own Jody Chapman in One Night in Vegas at the Pavilion Theatre Gorleston
Click on the above link for tickets – Thursday 16th April to Saturday 18th April.
Members are also going to see Sam Bailey in Big Fish at Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
The run is from Tuesday 21st April to 25th April – tickets can be ordered from the above link.
Dates for your diary
Quiz night 1st May
We have a members (including family and friends) quiz night coming up at the Lecture Hall George Lane.
It will be a fun night – devised by the brilliant Jane Rainer (Buttons).
For more information and to order tickets, Members please click on this link
Summer Party
Jackie and David will be holding a garden party on 1st August 2026 3pm until late.
Past Pantomime Video Showings
There are showings planned for
The Pied Piper 2025 in May 2026
Treasure Island 2024 in June 2026
Mother Goose 2023 in July 2026
The actual dates to be announced shortly see website, social media etc for the confirmed dates
Social Diary