Pantomime is riding high (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Pantomime is riding high

9:50am Friday 5th February 2010 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
•  

Little Red Riding Hood
Silchester Village Hall
Until February 6

LITTLE Red Riding Hood, by Paul Reakes, is perhaps not as well known as some pantos, but that didn’t stop Silchester Players choosing it for their current production.

The story is as follows: In Pantovia it is Rosie Rumple’s birthday and her gran gives her a red riding hood as a present. But, of course, there’s much more to it than that.

It has been a time of change in Pantovia as the devious Count de Cash – with help from his henchmen, Cringe and Cower – plots to snatch Pantovia from its rightful ruler and takes over as supreme leader.

Alan Moorhouse was in his element as the Count and played his role as the baddie complete with powdered wig, heart-shaped beauty spot and gorgeously effective lisp.

His plan is thwarted by the arrival of a handsome stranger Prince Rupert –- disguised as Tom Timsbury (Jade Saunders) – and his articulate and verbose valet, Sternum, played impressively by Tony Oliver.

The latter is also the object of unwanted attention from man-hungry Gertrude (Janice Garrard), who clearly enjoys this role and plays it with considerable charm and stage presence.

Tom stands up to the Count and falls in love with Rosie, played enchantingly by Laura Whiteway. But the Count discovers that Prince Rupert turns into a wolf by moonlight, which places Rosie and her family in danger.

Alec Burrell as Rose’s daft brother was a clear favourite with the audience, and Ian Hartwell dazzled us as Dame Roxie Rumple with his display of coloured clothing. His banter kept proceedings going nicely and there are some good local and topical jokes.

The look of the show – directed by Tim Oliver and produced by Sarah Oliver – is enhanced by brilliant sets and the chorus never fails to fill the stage with movement and colour.
–Chris Horton

* Three more performances are being staged at Silchester Village Hall – tonight, at 7.30pm, and Saturday at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets, at £7 or £5 with concessions, can be booked from Beryl Oliver on 01189 815600