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By Nigel Ford
Jack and the Beanstalk is usually one of my top three pantomime favourites although it can depend on two or three important factors that are often overlooked. Does the Beanstalk appear to grow as if by magic, can Jack actually climb it and will we ever get a glimpse of that Giant? It was here that Somerton Dramatic Society scored leaving no bean unturned!
This pantomime was written by Matthew Maisey – with a few added extras courtesy of Ian Hurdman – and directed by the talented Toby Weech.
This was a delightful production and, with a very easy to follow storyline from this ever popular pantomime, there was something for all ages to endear. Having watched this society over many years I had hoped to be in for an afternoon of magic and mayhem. I was not to be disappointed.
The show moved along at a relatively good pace although I felt Act 2 laboured a tad mainly because of scene changes. Thirty seconds of watching the black gang troupe on stage can often feel like half an hour in the world of panto but having said that all entrances and exits were employed well incorporating the side and back of the hall.
All sets were in keeping with the story and were pleasantly painted. I thought the Castle gates was a fine piece of engineering and cleverly thought through and the appearance of principals from under those boards – on arrival in cloudland – was ingenious and most memorable.
It was certainly an imaginative touch to present to us a ‘nosey’ Giant so we could see and hear him. However, I feel there should have been a deeper resonance to the voice – even an occasional roar – which would have been more fitting to the character.
I felt lighting and sound were use creatively throughout the whole production adding appeal to the show.
Castings were spot-on and each member played their part convincingly. I was drawn to the junior chorus as it was clear you were enjoying yourselves. You sang and danced with feeling and it was evident you have done everything that your Choreographer Kayleigh had asked of you.
There was certainly some sound acting and fine singing performances within the society. No one appeared to be off-key and I believe everyone was comfortable with their choice of song. Josie Mitchell’s Jack gave us a commanding stage presence and, in complementing Rebekah-Jane Davies’s Violet, made the love angle credible. You had lovely singing voices and you achieved a fine balance with your duet.
Michelle Mitchell’s Fairy Grapevine made our ears prick up as Shout was sung with aplomb. This was an excellent opener from a talented singer and actor.
Fran Cawley’s Fleshcreep built up a good rapport and held our attention at all times. We all loved to hate you and took much pity on Daisy. A strong performance.
Although not a hilarious pantomime, it was a reasonably funny one thanks to our comedy team. Toby Weech’s Dame Trott gave us an energetic performance and ‘milked’ the part for all it was worth. With such short notice and learning all of those lines you did incredibly well Toby. The fabulous costumes, wigs and make-up added to your character although you seemed a little agitated with a couple of the wigs worn. However, I was relieved you never wore lashes. In the dressing room they should rightly remain! Unfortunately the ‘magic floating ball’ was used with much haste and we could all see the gimmick which was a shame. Just my Magicians critical eye I guess!
Heather Bassett gave us all an amusing Simon. You were fun to watch and keeping up with your running gags brought continuity to the production.
Julie and Chloe’s Daisy both connected well. Not an easy part to play but your moovments and mannerisms created the perfect pantomime Cow.
Thanks to the talents of Amanda Worsdale a number of your costumes were certainly the’ business’. I loved all of the Dames including head wear, Daisy the Cow was magnificent but in particular I was drawn to Fairy Grapevines. This costume was made with precision. I adored every detail as this is exactly as a Fairy should look.
There has been a lot going on down at Somerton’s Milking parlour this year. I enjoyed this production very much indeed.
Thank you for your lovely hospitality and huge bag of goodies. They went down very well that evening along with my ‘milky pudding’!!
Nigel Ford
Moderator SFD