Long John Silver and his parrot.
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A pub full of euphoric actors for three nights running can only
mean that Christmas has once again arrived in Helmdon with the presentation
of the Bridge Players Pantomime.
What a feast for the eyes this production of Treasure Island turned
out to be on a typical winters evening. Acting aside, for the moment,
the quality of costumes and stage sets was quite superb in creating
the ideal atmosphere for all of the scenes ranging from the smoky,
salubrious Admiral Benbow Inn to the ship-shape deck of the HMS
Golden Behind and then on to a deserted Caribbean island. Without
a doubt, all those who watched this pantomime could not fail to
have been transported into the story.
Under the watchful eyes of Richard Pamment (Squire Trelawny) and
enlarged bosoms of Dave Bridger (Dame), new boy on the block Fraser
Turner (Jim Hawkins) put on a sterling performance in his first
major role as hero and love interest to the equally talented, seductive
and winsome Kate Blackburn (Polly). An insider reliably informs
us that the on-stage chemistry between the two goes no further whatever
you may read in 'Hello'.

Boo - hiss, it's the evil Cap'n Flint! |
Nicola Dent (Captain Flint's Ghost) and John Plunkett (Long John Silver)
succeeded in scaring the living daylights out of young children in
the audience while delivering vivid and powerful performances as evil
Pirates; certainly enough to make Johnny Depp look like a girls school
library monitor and for children throughout the village to tremble
at the mere mention of pantomime in years to come.
The host of other characters playing pirates, servants, jungle animals,
castaways, sailors etc is too long to mention but each and every
one played their part so well that they created the substance which
added so much to this performance and gave the overall grand effect.
As for the content, all of the proven essentials for a successful
pantomime were stylishly captured and presented to the audience
in a performance which provided first class entertainment. The strong
line up of international and village stars fittingly cast in suitable
roles delivered a 'tour de force' performance which had people "rowing"
in the aisles.
The entire cast, musicians and behind the scenes helpers have to
be congratulated for their hard work in putting on a marvellous
show under the guiding hand of Director, Val Smith. A standard has
been set which will give the Bridge Players something to aim for
in the coming years.
Report by Gary Turner
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