Panto Perfect! Congratulations to All!

A woman trapped in a washing machine, children chased by a fire-eating dragon and dancing skeletons on the loose – it must be pantomime time again in Tattenhall!

This latest production by Tattenhall Amateur Dramatic Society (TADs) of 'Aladdin' was watched by record sell-out audiences who booked in eager expectation of a festival of fun, colour and music. Rest assured, they did not leave disappointed. Impressive panto debuts by new members Charlie Cooke (Emperor), Rachel Whittingham (Princess Martini) and Claire Russell (Chorus) would suggest that the future is bright for this thriving theatre group in the heart of our Community.

With Alison Pritchard once again expertly directing a cast of 21 adults, 41 children, a live band and over 25 support crew staff, the Barbour Institute for a few days in January became the place to put aside all those Winter blues and share in this wonderful celebration of laughs and sing-along melodies. This year's special effects were bolder and more spectacular than ever, with particular highlights being the spooky skeleton dance, the pyrotechnic 'reveal' of the Genies, played by children Oliver Wilson and Lydia Gibson, and ably led by the suitably 'over the top' adult Genie of the Ring David Evans.
Wardrobe Manager, Linda Davenport, continues to produce costumes worthy of any professional production, and despite multiple costume changes, the performance maintained a rapid pace ensuring that even the youngest audience members were enthralled by nearly three hours of pure entertainment.

Catherine Bryant as Aladdin played a strong lead role, including confident singing performances. Her duet from the Grease Musical with Rachel Whittingham soon had the audience on their feet, and was a timely contrast with the hilarious rendition of 'You're my Little Chu-Chi Face... ' from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, for which Charlie Cooke and his co-star Angela Turner deservedly earned the loudest cheer of the night. TADs stalwarts Tiz Corcoran as Abanaza and Dave Gardiner as Widow Twanky provided the opportunity for the traditional panto boos, hisses and slapstick, whilst Ron Dodd as Inspector Chu delivered some of the best lines in the show and another memorable solo singing debut.

What better way to end this quintessentially British form of dramatic entertainment than with a rousing finale of 'It's RIDICULOUS'. Yes, it was ridiculous, but also still the very best form of all-round family entertainment.