Outrageous French accents? Even more outrageous double entendres? Shouting “poo-poo” at regular intervals? What else could it be but Brightlingsea Panto Group’s latest production, Beauty and the Beast.
If – like me – you weren’t aware that the story had Gallic origins, this show left you in no doubt from the offset with many of the supporting cast sporting colourful berets and stripey tops for the opening number. Next up was Chrissie Richards, playing the traditional good fairy role as French poodle Felix La Poo Poo, with a commendable accent and canine moves that quickly had the audience on her side.
Group chairman Lee Rowlands played Dame Ma for laughs and got plenty as he showed off some great comic timing – and if the odd risque one-liner went over the heads of the younger members of the audience, they certainly tickled the adults. Ma was ably supported by son Jacques, played by Sam Lowe, a perfect partner for tough-talking blacksmith and girlfriend Capucine, both of them dressed in imaginative and vibrant punk style.
Rosie Warren-Davies portrayed Beauty winsomely, particularly in her scenes with the impressively scary Beast – the echo effect added to Gordon Collen’s strong voice gave him extra presence. Wicked witch Malabelle soon had the audience booing heartily. Beck Stevens was properly malevolent and really shone in her musical numbers.
Rosie Warren-Davies portrayed Beauty winsomely, particularly in her scenes with the impressively scary Beast – the echo effect added to Gordon Collen’s strong voice gave him extra presence. Wicked witch Malabelle soon had the audience booing heartily. Beck Stevens was properly malevolent and really shone in her musical numbers.
There was thigh-slapping a-plenty from Kate Hynd’s strutting, scene-stealing Prince Christophe, while Tracey Hayes-Burt and Vandi Rathbone made a great double act as Aimee and Remy, using Fench mime artist-style moves to come to life from a painting in the Beast’s palace.
The Beast’s furniture – Candle Kia Holmes-Nicholson, Rug Sophie Edwards, Bedside Table Alan Van Der Merwe and Chest of Drawers Kayleich Jackson – added much to the fun, with Talking Clock Carrie Howard getting the best lines.
In support were well-drilled ensembles of youths, teens and adults, well-chosen songs and slick scene changes. Everone on and off stage was having a thoroughly good time and – after 45 annual productions – it’s great to see that the tradition of panto in Brightlingsea is continuing as strong as ever. Here’s to number 46!
