The Loddon Players at the Loddon & Chedgrave Arts Festival
Date: Friday 3 July, 8.00–9.00pm 
Venue: St Johns Lecture Hall, George Lane, Loddon
The Loddon Players delivered a vibrant one–hour showcase of music, dance and comedy as part of the Loddon & Chedgrave Arts Festival. The evening highlighted the group’s versatility and was warmly received by an enthusiastic audience. Compèred by Sarah Colman, the show comprised:
Dance
The performance opened with an energetic routine by the Funky Feet dancers, setting a lively tone for the evening. Further dance pieces followed, including a crisp and engaging solo tap routine by the multi-talented Tilly Bell.
As the programme approached its finale, the Funky Feet dancers returned to the stage for a final high–energy dance number, lifting the atmosphere once more and providing the perfect lead–in to the closing song.
Music
Beautiful solo songs and duets were performed by Gemma Buskell and Tilly Bell, showcasing expressive vocals and confident stage presence. Their musical contributions added warmth and contrast to the comedy elements of the programme.
Comedy
Comedy featured prominently throughout the evening. Peter Samain delivered a well–timed rendition of the classic Tommy Cooper Hat Sketch, which drew enthusiastic laughter from the audience. Three additional sketches completed the line–up:
- Five Act Play – five increasingly funny versions of the same short play, performed in rapid succession.
- Cinderella (5 Minutes) – a fast–paced, cleverly condensed retelling of the familiar pantomime story.
- Four Ladies – written by Steve Burton, this Monty Python–style piece combined sharp writing with strong character work.
Finale
The evening concluded with the cast reprising their finale song from this year’s pantomime Cinderella: a rousing performance of I’m a Believer, ending the showcase to great applause.
The Loddon Players ensemble
Jackie Bingham
Jane Rainer
Gemma Buskell
Tilly Bell
Linda Skepelhorn
Peter Samain
Dawn Cartwright
Johnny Green
Sam Bailey
David Bingham
Pauline Mason
Ana Harper-Bourne
Funky Feet School of Dance and Performing Arts
Lighting and Sound – Adam Kellingray-Williamson
Stage Management – Alan Harper-Bourne