Tatworth's Beauty & the Beast

Tatworth Amateur Pantomime Society present

Beauty and the Beast 

Despite never being able to find Tatworth village hall, even with a provided map and sat nav, it is always a relief when I drive through many housing estates and suddenly the hall appears as if by panto magic!

This season’s choice was Beauty and the Beast written by Dawn Cairns, a name I am not familiar with, and directed by Angie Davies and Debbie Davis.

I received a comprehensive programme listing all scenes and some great song titles.

Prior to the show starting it was a lovely touch to remember two of the TAPS members who had sadly died recently. This production was in memory of them and I am certain Kevin would have been very proud of this years production.

I must say this was a great choice of script. Occasionally Beauty and the Beast can be a dark and sad tale but sadness most certainly made way for humorous moments of this story. We had a touch of Cinderella and Snow White too but everything blended perfectly.

Casting was spot on and all the well rehearsed principals and chorus made this show the success it was.

In particular I congratulate Simples, Dimples and Mrs Stodge who kept pantomime tradition alive with faultless comical timings and expressions. Praise must also be given to Tarquin, the magic talking mirror who, at just 16, gave a most comical and mature performance. It may have been an idea to have served up some peptobismol during the interval though for those who actually sampled Mrs Stodge’s delightful porridge and pickled onion delight!

I enjoyed musical statues too. A unique routine involving the children rather than using them for your house number.

What a joy to hear every single word from mic’d  up principals. Sound was faultlessly managed throughout as was lighting although the audience was blinded by the light on a couple of occasions!

Well done again black gang. All sets were swiftly and silently changed.

Costumes and set design looked striking under the lighting adding appeal to this pantomime. 

I congratulate everyone including the Chorus, Trees, Rats, Kitchen Staff, Flowers, Statues and Gnomes for making this a most memorable production. 

I enjoyed every moment and applaud you all.

It was definitely ‘Nice to see you’…………….

Nigel Ford

Moderator