Review – Frank Iliffe Beccles and Bungay Journal – Jan 2006
Player’s panto is another winner
Yes, I have to admit, I love pantomime, and secretly rejoice when the season comes round at this time of year, when the festivities of Christmas and the new year are over. The weather may be bleak, but inside the cosy hall, it’s warm and there’s fun and laughter in abundance.
This year, on their 30th anniversary, the Loddon Players pantomime is Robin Hood. A glance at the programme, and we find that all our favourites are in it, especially Maureen Larkin and Anthony Bunting, who we know will feature prominently throughout the evening.
They don’t disappoint us, and their quick-fire rapport with the audience gets the show on its way. Things get serious with the entry of Steve Burton as the sinister Sheriff of Nottingham, who is plotting to ensnare our hero, Robin Hood, played by Adam Taylor, in an exceptionally enthusiastic performance.
On this opening night, Hannah Fulcher proved a delightfully Maid Marion. The Merry Men were splendid, with Ian Taylor prominent as Friar Tuck; Maria Moore, a most attractive Will Scarlet; Graham Orpet as Alan-a-Dale, performing with his ukulele, and last but not least, Jackie Bingham, clearly relishing the part of Little John.
Ian Fulcher’s King Richard was certainly very regal, and together with Sir Gavain played by Stephen Olive, ensured that right would prevail.
Arabella, the donkey, was played with great fortitude by Alexandra Chilvers and Pauline Mason.
However, it often happens that the children have a habit of stealing the show, as the fairies watching over the two lost children, played by Matthew Moore and Hollie Mason, they managed to enthral the audience.
Their guardian, Joan Evans, who incidentally wrote and directed the pantomime, sang beautifully.
Performances continue tonight and tomorrow at 2:30pm and 7:30pm, and next Thursday, Friday and Saturday (January 26, 27th and 28th) at 7:30pm, with a further matinee at 2:30pm on January the 28th.
