AN ICE BREAKING DEBUT FOR FROZEN TAPS!

The temperature has plummeted and the ‘taps’ are frozen as I make my way inside Tatworth village hall. It is here Tatworth Amateur Pantomime Society are performing their debut The Snow Queen.

There is one thing for certain though, I certainly didn’t receive a frosty reception upon arrival. It was now time for me to chill out and enjoy this Arctic experience and what an experience it was!

Although this production veered away from some of the traditional elements expected in pantomime this was nonetheless a very memorable show. It was admirable for this society to ‘try something different’ as it certainly paid off.

This was a well rehearsed, colourful and vibrant production albeit with one or two prompts along the way.  It was a joy to see many of your original cast taking on totally different roles this season.

All principals, villagers and junior chorus gave one hundred percent and it was evident everyone was happy in their role. The cue bite was strong and the show moved along at a good pace. There were some great numbers sung with aplomb although I never guessed I would be doing the Hokey Cokey at nine forty!

Comedy was in abundance from Dame Rosie Bunion and how could we ever forget the antics of our penguins Percy and Pete - these flightless birds gave an unflappable performance.

Evil was in abundance by the dreaded Snow Queen herself working well alongside Jack Frost. I wouldn’t want to bump into those two characters late at night in Chard Junction!

Bright smiles always lit up the stage by the Ice Maidens, Junior Chorus and Villagers making this a refreshing show.

There was so much to absorb including fine costumes, great set construction and magnificent lighting and special effects. At times I felt I was taken away watching a theatre production rather than being inside a village hall. It was evident an incredible amount of thought had gone into this pantomime thanks to directors Grant, Kevin and Kelly and it certainly paid off.

And with its brand new website for the latest updates, ticket information and upcoming events it is obvious this society is going from strength to strength and I wish them all well for future productions.

So to everyone at TAPS I applaud you and thank you for a shivering spectacle.

Review submitted by Nigel Ford