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Roadwater Village Hall
Roll up Roll up. The ‘Big Top’ has come to town. Well actually it has come to a village. So having turned off of the trunk road I head towards Roadwater where its Players are performing Nelly the Elephant.
Having read this cleverly written script by Katherine Kingsford, I was hoping this was going to be an evening full of fun packed entertainment. I was certainly not to be disappointed. This is a pantomime with a difference as its story takes us behind the scenes of the circus but incorporating all the pantomime necessities and much more!
If you like the circus then you will love this show. In fact, I preferred watching this production to the real thing!
What shone through for me was the variety of characters, with many of them performing their very own individual circus antics.
There were one or two technical issues on opening night but the cue bite was relatively sharp and lines were delivered assuredly.
All sets were to a very high standard. The view of Minehead’s coastline was most remarkable. Rob Hand certainly has to be congratulated for his artistic skills. All props – many of them too -were used creatively and made this show the spectacle that it was.
Of course, this pantomime revolves around the famous Elephant Nellie and what a memorable performance she gave! I am certain she will have a lasting impression on audiences young and old long after the curtain falls. The making of this adorable character and the puppeteering were absolutely faultless. Congratulations Katherine.
Without comedy pantomime cannot flourish and your team of Aunty Nelly, Teeter, Totter and ‘good old’ Mavis held this tradition together. Most of the audience involvement has to be prompted by the cast and it was here you succeeded. Nigel McBrayne’s Dame was an excellent portrayal. You got all the right laughs in the right places and with a lovely smiling face you were warmed to immediately. Clowning around was provided by the talents of Rob Hand and Hamish Allan (Teeter and Totter). You were a perfect energetic pair and literally bounced off each other well. I loved your mannerisms and facial expressions. It only goes to prove that without custard pies or trying to be to OTT you can be just as comical. Well done.
We mustn’t forget Mavis. What a character. I’d have a gin with you anytime! Although this was not a huge part, it brought continuity to the show with verve and conviction. Your voice was well controlled at all times and I thought you were very funny indeed.
Other comedy moments included the human cannonball and knife throwing routine.
There were many memorable moments provided by your juniors. I certainly enjoyed ‘Wake up it’s a beautiful morning’ and the ‘Dream a little dream’ routine.
All principals, ladies and children worked hard on their roles. In particular Jack Diamonds (Clary Binding), Di Ring (Fiona Laney), Bill (Kenneth Cross), Ruby Ring (Mae Hughes) Lulu (Jemima Williams) and Bo (Caleb Laney) gave sound performances.
There were a variety of musical numbers but perhaps a tad too many. Although nicely shortened I felt some of the principals did struggle with their recording tracks. It was a little disappointing that many of the numbers had abrupt endings.
This did not totally spoil the show as there was much to savour from this society.
From Trapeze artists to snake charmers, all of the circus characters were here and I enjoyed it from start to finish.
I therefore allow you all to blow your own trumpets alongside Nelly!
Nigel Ford
Moderator SFD