Just when you thought panto was over KATS go after King Rat

It’s still Panto season! Oh yes, it is!

Children and adults alike enjoy it immensely; they can boo and hiss the baddie, whoop and cheer the goodies and get totally involved in the action.

Mike Brook has written a witty script with a good plot and all a traditional pantomime should have – men dressed as women, women dressed as men, goodies, baddies, excruciatingly bad jokes, innuendos and, of course, audience participation.

The story begins in London, where Dick Whittington comes to seek his fortune, believing the streets are paved with gold – a most capable performance by Siouxsie Ashmore, every part the principal boy, with a winning smile and shapely thigh to slap. She had a pleasant singing voice that blended well with the delightful Alice Fitzwarren, delicately played by Jenny Woolf. Jessica Lowe’s portrayal of Tabitha the stray cat befriended by Dick was nicely feline, her monotone meow accompanied by the licking of paws and playing with ears. However, come the big chorus numbers she sang and danced like a trouper.

Framed for theft by evil King Rat (Kevin Miller), booed each time he made an appearance, Dick sets sail for Africa on the Leaky Boot, along with the Fitzwarren household – Mayor Fitzwarren (Andrew J Smith whose articulate dialogue and lilting tone made much of his character) Sarah (Craig Robinson) his cook who made the most of the comedic dialogue and audience interaction and Idle Jack (Gemma Cole who knows her craft and played her part with quirky moves and bags of energy). The crew was led by the proficiently adaptable David Richardson who gave a standout performance as Cap ‘N Hand,

They run into a storm and are shipwrecked on an island inhabited by cannibals led by Antonio Macaroni (Pam Hicks who may not have the most tuneful singing voice but did have the most wonderfully over the top Italian accent). Tabby rids the island of rats and Antonio is so grateful he puts his private jet at their disposal. (Lucky for them Cap ‘N Hand is also a qualified pilot.) They return to London, overthrow King Rat, Dick weds Alice and they all live happily ever after.

There were strong performances from the supporting cast Rats 1 and 2 (Megan and Cheyanne Bunce), Salty Sam (Nick Prince), Fac Totum (Cindy Bunce), Newsreader (Emma Low) and noteworthy performances by Ceri Lawrence - Tommy, Eileen Paula - Mate and Joe Rollinson – Roger.

The chorus played a variety of roles and their song and dance routines, though ragged at times, came over with energy and enthusiasm. Siouxsie Ashmore (singing director) and Gemma Cole (choreographer), along with the technical crew worked hard to ensure the production was pleasing to the eye and fun. Costumes and make-up were of considerable note. Director Janet Kilgallon-Brook should be congratulated on an enjoyable and entertaining evening.

JEANETTE MASKELL