12:56pm Friday 5th March 2010
REVIEW: Androcles and the Lion, Seend Fawlty Players.
Seend Fawlty Players’ village pantomimes tend to be a bit different – both in their zany humour and, as in this case, in occasionally tackling stories not traditionally seen as pantomimes.
The ancient fable of Androcles with an added touch of romance, the lion as panto animal, and Roman Gods replacing the usual wizards and witches, fitted the panto format remarkably well. The production was occasionally a bit chaotic, but there were enough strong performances to more than compensate. Seeing such a mix of age groups and talents working together was all part of the show’s appeal.
Andy Nutland’s portrayal of Androcles was a treat, and has been described as ‘Mr Bean meets Spartacus’. Clare Philpott was excellent as Androcles’ feisty one true love.
Roger Brind was a splendid emperor, and Rory Sherman a loveable lion. Chris Waylen and Jackie Hamblin, as gilded statues of Jupiter and Juno, provided the magic. Charlotte Hook almost stole the show as a soothsayer.
Visual impact came from the scenery designed by Jan Crabtree and John Kendall, props made by Colin Waldeck, and costumes made by Anita Shea (who also directed) plus the cast and their families. The unflappable Deryn Stafford provided the piano accompaniment, and the original script was written by Peter Wallis, Anita Shea and Tessa Doe.
The backstage crew was efficient. Most of the proceeds from the show will be donated to the Wiltshire Blind Association.
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