Review – Beccles & Bungay Journal – Jan 1993
Laughter is key aspect of panto
If you do not believe that laughter is good for you then you had better not go anywhere near the Lecture Hall in George Lane, Loddon, this weekend.
It is a safe bet that the laughter will be decidedly infectious as the Loddon Pantomime Players give the final performances of Robinson Crusoe and Friends.
Written and produced by Joan Evans, the 18th Loddon Pantomime has all the ingredients which made the previous 17 such compulsive viewing for the local audience.
Much of the responsibility for providing the foolery and fun – plus a natty little tap dance this year – rests on the experienced shoulders of Dame Derek Loyd and Petunia Maureen Larkin.
And if you have never seen a gorilla doing the twist, Loddon’s panto gives you a chance to add that spectacle to the roll call of life’s little experiences.
But there are too many other vital contributions to the gaiety of this happy little show to single out anybody for special mention.
Not only because the age range of the pantomime players extends from children through to, well, the more mature artists, but also because the interplay between cast and audience suggest that the Loddon community is not unlike an extended family.
As ever the show has good costumes, jolly songs, imaginative sets and lighting, a lot of fun – and this year, as ever, excellent support from the panto going public.
But there is one unsung heroine whose vital contribution to Loddon’s annual pantomime cannot go unmentioned.
Where would they all be without the musical accompaniment of organist Beryl Carver?
Be assured that Robinson Crusoe and Friends is a vintage Loddon rib-tickler.
And if you really do believe that a good laugh is just what the doctor ordered then go and pick up your prescription at the George Lane Lecture Hall tonight (Friday) or tomorrow afternoon or evening.
