ALICE AND FRIENDS IN WONDERLAND

Antrobus Players

 

Director Marry Cummings

Musical Director Janet Featonby

Choreography Debbie Sutton

 

It is always interesting when you see a new title in the pantomime presentation list. The first thought is will this well-loved children’s book adapt into a pantomime format. The answer is a resounding yes. The script was written by group member Janet Featonby. One of the possible pitfalls of adapting is making the script too wordy, cramming everything on the page into dialogue.

 

This was not the case with this pantomime; there was just enough of the story, its characters and the inclusion of parts of the original narrative we all remember. There were a couple of new friends of Alice in Wonderland helping Alice find her way home.  A fitting song selection played on backing tracks also suited this presentation.

 

Once again, the “Last of the Summer Wine Crew” and friends constructed a very workable set. All the iconic characters were recognisable in their fabulous costumes, designed and made by Debbie Sutton and team. There was an added element of magic from Chris Bailey’s lighting.

 

 Wonderland was recreated for the adventure to take place. There was not just Alice following the white rabbit. She was accompanied by her two friends. They brought modern day living to the proceedings via costume and mobile phones. The running gag of “Don’t tell my dad” worked well.

 

Direction concentrated on high energy, which was maintained throughout. Moving each scene at such a pace was a winning factor. Each character knew what was expected from them and they delivered. Ensemble work was included and the BIBBLEDEWOPS were an integral part of the enjoyment. All the music was well interpreted. The doll/puppet scene was inspirational and excellently delivered.

 

Due to ill health, the role of the rabbit was supposedly given to a member of the audience. Maggie Pinfold under protest took on and had fun in the role. Tweedle Dee and Dum are the comedy duo. Chris Tratalos and Kate O’Donnell were the infamous pair, bringing chaos and high jinks to all their interplay. They were very watchable and earned their applause.

 

“Off with their heads” Queen (Ann Pugh) and King (Phil Pugh) were in splendid form. Poppy Cook kept an eye on the election proceedings between the Queen and Hatter. In the royal kitchen the maker of the tarts is Cook. Jane Meakin as the Marry Berry of Wonderland extracted everything out of the dialogue, giving a feast of characterisation. All those tarts were a great temptation for Cat, splendidly detailed in delivery by Gracie Dobson.

 

The tea party in its entire splendour, with the Hare (Ally Newby), Dormouse 1 (Sophie Wilkinson), Dormouse 2 (Jamie Newby) and the Hatter Helen Newby. Helen never stopped for a moment and was always on the move. It could not have been any more manic: the scene was great fun.

 

We then met Turtle (Brian Taylor) Walrus (Victoria Gallimore) and Caterpillar (Sue Richards) all true to the original characters. They added to the fast moving mayhem of entertainment.

 

We met all these larger than life characters though Alice and her friends. The friends were Eliza, played by Eve Shaw and Paige, played by Emily Clewes. They were more than supportive, they were colourful individuals. Daisy Hayes showed her understanding of Alice, giving a nicely rounded performance. The three of them showed excellent team work.

 

I am glad I didn’t miss this new festive entertainment from such a hard working company.