IN CREATING a traditional panto, writer Simon Cousens has ticked all the boxes with delights such as bad jokes, lots of songs and audience participation and a man in frocks.
The briefer second half romped along nicely, though the too leisurely somewhat overlong first part might have been improved by firmer direction. However, there was a judicious choice of music, some nice touches and good interplay between characters.
The production benefitted from a palpable sense of enthusiasm from the cast and strong central performances. Simon Cousens was good value as the dame Sally Cook.
Oliver Downer (Jack) played the role with a likeable goofy charm.
Poppy Squibb (Dick Whittington) and Anni Duncan (Alice) made a charming couple and sang very well. The stand-out performance was undoubtedly Katie Downer (Pat the Cat) who had an easy charm, great stage presence and a lovely voice.
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