Silchester Players

The Sleeping Beauty by Ben Crocker

Silchester Village Hall

Performances continue on February 6 and 7 at 7.30pm

AT the christening of Princess Aurora, wicked fairy Carabosse and her cat Spindleshanks are furious when they realise that they haven't got an invitation.

Casting a spell that is meant to kill the princess, they are forestalled by Fairy Peaceful. Can she save the princess from her fate and keep her safe to be rescued by her handsome prince?

Slapstick, toe tapping songs enchantment and zombies all combine to make this a night to remember.

There are so many good performances that it is difficult to single out any one player.

Basingstoke Gazette:

However, high praise is due to Roy Glancey (Queen Dorothy) in his first outing as a pantomime dame. Roy's take on the role is pitch perfect and he is to be congratulated on a highly entertaining performance.

Oli Williams as Billy the Royal Butler is perfect in the role, well meaning but not over endowed with brains! Claire Humphreys as the evil Carabosse is simply sensational. Costume and makeup are superb and she captivates the audience with her diabolical manner.

Faith Albrecht is flawless as the young Princess Aurora, whilst Prince Orlando is ably played by Charley Henkey.

Robert Whitehead's performance as King Norbert is totally convincing, and the two cats, one good and one evil (Kitty, played by Isobel Frost, and Spindleshanks by Jo Simpson) both give excellent performances.

Isobel Frost as Kitty 

Basingstoke Gazette:

The zombie dancing routine is highly authentic complete with dry ice and the backstage crew and Jill Gillett (makeup) add extra authenticity to what is already a highly entertaining evening.

Finally, congratulations to Keith Graham who directs the production with his customary efficiency and flair.

This is an excellent production and not to be missed!

Angela Solomons