It’s Panto time in New Mills and once again it’s colourful, it’s fun, it’s audience participation and a great night out! Frosted is presented by Friends of the Art Theatre. Kim Cooper makes her debut as pantomime Director and I have to say I have worked many years with Kim and she has done an amazing job. Of course, you can’t have a panto without music and dancing and leading the musicians is Oliver Jodrell who has done a super job with ensemble vocal harmonies. Great to see Cathryn Yates back as choreographer. This team of dancers is well drilled and, what’s more, work their socks off on stage with a smile on their faces.
The principals work as a team and congratulations must go to Dave Brittles who stepped at short notice to play the role of Prince Anders the pantomime baddie. He had us booing and hissing throughout his performance and he was ably assisted by Lisa Quin as Sinestra. Dave also played the role of Token and did a great job of that.
Grace Tildesley (Ella) and Keira Lambe (Hannah) the two princesses had strong musical vocals and good character acting. Tom Farris as Kristian was very natural in this role and Grace Vickers was a good choice as the snow queen. Anthony Lambe as the herald made the role fun and got the party going. Congratulations to Helena Ashbury as Scoop, this was only a small role but I have to say she made it her own.
Now to Ross Provart who played Duke Wesley who became Frosty. This young man never fails to amaze me. His characterisation is his own, which for a director is a blessing. As the Duke, his accent and delivery is uniquely his, then the transformation into Frosty is a totally new different accent and almost giddy character, who the children will love. He is very entertaining and his timing with the Dame is excellent for one so young.
It’s great to see Darren Cooper back as the Dame. His banter with the audience is first class and his costumes fabulous.
I said colourful at the beginning – well the finale is the icing on the cake. Many congratulations to all involved in this pantomime – stage crew, sound and lighting, costumes, make up, chaperones, and of course the extra volunteers who run this magical little gem of a theatre. Wishing you all a fantastic run and thank you for asking me down to do this report. Sheryl Haydock-Howorth
Tickets are still available so don’t delay, hurry and get your tickets now.
Performances
Friday 30 January, Friday 6 February and Saturday 7 February – 7.15pm Saturday 31 January, Sunday 1 February and Saturday 7 February – 2.15pm
Ticket information: Adults: £14.50 Under 16s: £12.50
