Previous Shows


 

Dick Whittington

Dick Whittington

Directed by Ray Seagar assisted by Rob Dack


The Orchard Players  present Dick Whittington

At Capel St. Mary Community Centre on 12th January 2024

Director – Ray Seager, Assisted by Rob Dack

Choreographers – Lynn Perera, Charlea Finbow, Bex Nicholls & Gracie Seager

Written by Stephen Duckham

Review – Catherine Dixey

 

This was a traditional village Panto from Orchard Players and they achieved that standard with ease and with participation and familiarity between cast and audience being so apparent.  It had all the familiar characters and we meet Fairy Bowbells (Sandie Finbow) as she casts her magic ensuring  good reigns over evil. Daniel Johnson played the larger than life Ratface, King of the Rats and he really captured this nasty character as he engages with the audience in comedic fashion.  His seven little rats all looked good with their black noses and all matching fluffy headpieces and tails as they ran around the stage with plenty of energy.  They were played by  Evelyn, Matilda, Amelia, Eleanor, Kaiya, Eleanor and Lana. Well done girls.

Lola Miller is Jack, a comedy role she played with confidence and energy as she communicates well with the audience.  We also meet Alderman Fitzwarren, (Kerry Broom) and his sweet daughter Alice played by Ava Robinson-Rogers. The Alderman’s shop is not doing very well and is overrun with rats so along comes Dick Whittington (Gracie Seager) with his trusty cat Tommy, (Kacie Johnson).  Gracie looked good as principal boy, a part she played with warmth and enthusiasm and who worked well together with her furry friend Tommy. For me Tommy stole the show, this young character was full of life, energy and totally living the part as she ran around chasing off all the Rats.

Other main principal characters included Gavin Ostler as Captain Cod and Fiona Rogers as Skate The Mate. She is a natural comedian both physically and vocally (loved the wriggling fish!!)  who contrasted well with the more staid  character of the Captain, a good combination.  Len Stockdale as Sarah Suet, the Dame in this Panto, played  his role very nicely and  worked well communicating with the audience. Innuendos were tastefully delivered and very funny.  The adult chorus were lively and enthusiastic in their singing and dancing of the musical numbers managing the restricted stage area very well.  There were also some good and very well sung songs with small groups of principals including ‘Me and my shadow’ which rounded off Act 1.

A lot of thought had gone into the different dance routines and there was also a well choreographed fight scene with Dick and  Ratface.  The costumes which were either specifically made for this show or from the Society’s wardrobe were good and colourful, particularly all the costumes in the Sultan’s palace scene.

The set  worked well with each scene seamlessly changed to keep up a good pace. This was also helped with the good use of the front apron and  the different tab lines.

All credit to Ray and Rob in directing and for all the hard work of the production team in bringing this Panto to life.  Well done to all the cast for giving us and their many friends and family in the audience an enjoyable evening  which was shown by their appreciation and enthusiastic applause throughout.

 

Catherine Dixey. NODA East Representative District E12

NODA owns the intellectual Property Rights to the content of all show reports written by NODA Councilors, Reps and Assistant Reps.


January 2024


ItsShowTime

SHOWTIME

Directed by Glyn Hill and Co Directed by Lynn Perera


The Orchard Players present  It’s Showtime

Capel St Mary Community Hall on 6th July 2023

Directors – Glyn Hill & Lynn Perera.

Musical Director – Maria King

Choreographers – Amanda Dack, Charlea Finbow, Bex Nicholls, Lynn Perera,

Emma Pulford & Gracie Seager

Review – Catherine Dixey

Glyn and Lynn had come up with the idea for this show over a coffee one morning.  They wanted to include lots of their favorite songs from the musicals including Starlight Express, Anything Goes, Guys and Dolls and many more.  It must have been quite a task to whittle down the list from so many great  shows to ones that would work with their membership. With the help of Maria King, their MD, who had I’m sure given this cast lots of help and encouragement.

The cast itself was made up from lots of familiar faces from the Company and also included a junior ensemble  aged between 9 and 12 years, including some new members making their stage debut.  They opened with five songs from Starlight Express including  ‘I am Starlight’a duet from Ray Seager and a very confident  young Evelyn Marriott. Cheryll Burton & Rob Dack treated us to their rendition of ‘All I Ask of You’.  The Juniors gave us ‘Fat Sam’s Grand Slam’ from Bugsy Malone and a lively full chorus number ‘Flash, Bang, Wallop’ from Half a Sixpence. They finished the first half with ‘Any Dream Will Do.

In the second half we heard the clear and pure voice of Sophie Bridges with a beautiful  solo of ‘On My Own’ from Les Miserables. One of my favorite sections was from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ with Solos from Analeigh Perera, Kacie Johnson and Matilda Seager who all sang confidently and were absolutely delightful.  Linda Garrad & Bex Nicholls calmed down the proceedings with a touching rendition of ‘I Knew Him So Well’.

The whole cast all did a grand job and the Juniors were delightful with plenty of energy and enthusiasm.  The choreography was well thought out to suit the differing age groups and the cast were obviously enjoying their singing and dancing. There were quite a few costume changes  which looked good and all the juniors looked very smart with their plaited hair.  It was good to see live music to accompany the singers from the six piece band lead by Maria King on the keyboard.   The cast made the most of the stage and front apron using the space well, which was enhanced by some good lighting.

The small audience were all very appreciative.  Our thanks go to Glyn and Lynn and all their cast and production team for all their work in putting together this musical show and giving us all a very enjoyable evening’s entertainment.

Catherine Dixey,

NODA East District 12 Representative, on behalf of Hazel Hole from District 11.


July 2023



Babes In The Woods

Directed by James Finbow, assisted by Charlea Finbow


Orchard Players

Babes In The Wood

Capel St Mary Community Centre on 12th January 2023

Director – James Finbow

Assistant Director – Charlea Finbow

Musical Consultant – Maria King

Choreographers – Charlea Finbow, Bex Nicholls, Lynn Perera

Written by Helen Gard & Jo Stokes

Review by Catherine Dixey

We were warmly welcomed by the FOH team and shown to our seats. The Panto opened with Fairy Fluster ( Lynn Perera) setting the scene  along with her fairy helpers, Willow, Cowslip and Thistledown who were all delightful. She also introduced us to the suitably evil, Baron D’Evil (Neil Jackson) who got the audience warmed up with their ‘booing’ and ‘hissing’. Mr Blue Sky was the first big chorus number which was a happy, joyful number and all looked enthusiastic and gave the song plenty of energy. The young girls all looked particularly good with long plaited hair, which showed a nice attention to detail.

The two Babes, Emmaline and Edwin were played by Evelyn Marriott and Jack Ostler. These two very young people, worked well together and stayed in character the whole time. Well done to them.  Ray Seager  played the dame Cheri Bakewell, who looked wonderful in her colourful costumes and with a Bakewell tart hat complete with cherry on top. He had a great voice and several songs, which he sung very well.  Spittle & Lurch (Glyn Hill and Kerry Bloom) were the comedy slapstick duo. They had two good cameo parts and they really seemed to enjoy playing these silly characters, giving us plenty of laughs.

As the Panto progressed we were taken to the forest where we met Robin Hood and Maid Marion (Brian Harvey and Sophie Bridges), not forgetting Friar Tuck and Will Scarlet (Brian Spalding and Sandie Finbow). Alice-A-Dale and Little Jane (Bex Nicholls and Gracie Seager) were involved in lots of the scenes. They were lively characters, and acted and sang very enthusiastically. Bex had also helped with the choreography and these two girl’s talents were noticeable as they lead several of the dances to the musical numbers with great energy. Indeed all the songs were well choreographed and suitably matched to the talents of the individuals in their particular numbers.  All the ensemble and cast did well with their own little characters despite a few first night nerves.

The music was to taped music and Maria King had certainly brought out the best in the cast with some very good singing and a good choice of appropriate songs. Costumes by Orchard’s costume department were all colourful and well fitting with nice attention to detail including the footwear which was all very appropriate. The set and props had all been made ‘in house’ and added well to create the right atmosphere, as did the sound and lighting, despite a few technical issues with the sound.

This was a traditional family village Panto and the whole audience were very appreciative and entered into the spirit of the evening.  Congratulations to James and his assistant Director Charlea, along with all the cast and crew for a very entertaining evening.

Review by Catherine Dixey, Representative District E12

On behalf of Hazel Hole, Representative District E11


January 2023



Into the Light

Directed by Glyn Hill, assisted by Lynn Perera


Into the Light
The Orchard Players
Capel St Mary Community Centre, 7th July 2022
Director - Glyn Hill
Musical Director - Maria King
Producer Lynn Perera
Choregraphers - Cheryll Burton, Charlea Finbow, Bex Nicholls, Lynn Perera, Amanda Dack, Gracie Seager
Review - Catherine Dixey, NODA Representative for District 12
This was my visit to Orchard Players in Capel St Mary and we were made very welcome by Glynn Hill. He explained that this was their first production since Covid and all their members were keen to get back on the stage again after such a long break. They wanted to produce a happy and uplifting show with that feel good factor and decided on a review. All members were asked what they would like to perform and they came up with a varied programme so there was something for all tastes to enjoy. I must add that they are well blessed with some good confident singers and dancers and some very brave young soloists.
They opened with the whole cast singing “I’d like to teach the world to sing” which they performed with energy and enthusiasm. Then Lauren Broom sang “Waving through the window”, which she also signed with great emotion and feeling. An excellent and extraordinary performance by Lauren. There were performances by the Juniors aged 9 to 13 and their next piece was well choreographed by Gracie Seager also aged just 13. Amanda Dack gave us “One on the way” with a country and western feel and injected with a bit of comedy. The talented ladies chorus gave us some lovely pieces with good harmonies and solos. The first half ended with an energetic performance of “Time Warp” by the whole cast with, again, some nice choreography.
In the second half I must mention two of the younger singers Lola Miller and Analeigh Perera who delighted us with their solos. “Master of the house” was well performed by the adults with just the right amount of spice! The songs and dances just kept coming with some great performances. They ended with a few songs in tribute to “The Rat Pack” including “Mack the Knife” and “That’s Life” in which the men really excelled. This section was completed with a rousing rendition of “New York New York” with the singers mingling with the audience to good effect. As with all shows it is impossible to mention all performers by name but rest assured you all did very well.
Maria King, who was also involved in singing some of the songs, had certainly done a beautiful job and you could feel her encouragement going out to all her singers which was complimented by her 5 piece band. The numerous choreographers had all done a great job in getting the best out of their dancers. Costumes were all appropriate, with some bright, colourful and well fitting dresses. There was no set as such although the lighting was good in keeping a change in the moods for the different songs.
There is always a large production team required behind the scenes and thanks must go to them all. Well done to Glyn and all his cast and crew for giving us all a most enjoyable evening.

July 2022



Musical of Dreams

Directed by Ray Seager


THE ORCHARD PLAYERS

MUSICAL OF DREAMS

Director Raymond Seager

Musical Director Maria King

Choreographers Bex Nicholls, Charlea Finbow, Lyn Perera and Katrina Miller

Performed at the Capel St Mary Community Centre

13th - 15th January 2022

18 January 2022

 

 

It was so lovely to be returning to Capel St Mary for an Orchard Players production. The Front of House team as always made every member of the audience feel truly welcome. The organisation and adherence to the Covid guidelines was exemplary and certainly made the audience feel safe. Thank you.

 

The opening scenes introduced us to the central figure in the musical, Daniel, played with great accuracy and charm by Gracie Seager. Her adherence to character and her obvious ability in both singing and dancing made this a very strong performance. Lynn Perera gave us a warm and loving picture of a mother. I would have preferred to see the home scenes presented closer to the audience.

 

Off to school and the relationship with Harry, Ava Robinson Rodgers and Edith, Millie Martin was introduced. This was a thread which developed well through the piece. Both characters were delightful and very well portrayed. The school bullies led by Tommy, Lola Miller, were also well done and gave direction to the plot.

 

Daniel's dream journey then took us to so many places and introduced a lot of very well known Musical Theatre and Pantomime characters. Mary Poppins played by Charlea Finbow was a super representation of this well loved character. A 'Little bit of Light Fantastic' was a great group number with a real cockney vibe. I loved it. James Finbow's 'Jack' and Neil Jackson's 'Bert' were both very well played. What an incredible tongue twister from Jack!

 

Bex Nicholls portrayal of Miss Hannigan was amazing. I really would like to see her in 'Annie'. This was a very strong performance and so well supported by the young people in her 'care!' Matilda Seager was a great Annie. The ensemble performance of 'A Hard Knock Life' was one of my highlights.

 

This show was a real trip through the Musical Theatre world with an appearance of the Genie well played by Rob Dack , Amber Carney as Matilda and the incredibly costumed Fiona Robinson and Ian O'Hanlon as Cogsworth and Lumiere and Glyn Hill and Emma Cranwell as Plumba and Timon from' 'The Lion King'. I lost count of the many references. The theme of the musical became evident as each part of Daniel's journey enhanced the character's confidence.

 

The quality of singing and dancing throughout the cast was excellent. It is not often that such an excellent balance between adult and junior performance is achieved. The band supported every song with verve giving a real liveliness to the show. The brilliant choreography shone in every number performed. I particularly enjoyed 'Step in Time' and the great finale 'All in this Together'. Congratulations to the choreography team.

 

This was a very lively and excellently performed musical but I did find the plot somewhat confusing. Every member of the cast contributed to giving the audience a great afternoon. The costumes were amazing!! Congratulations to Julie Wardley, Cheryl Burton and Laura Finbow. The lighting enhanced

the action and was particularly successful when the cast came through the audience which is not easy to achieve.

 

Congratulations to the Director Raymond Seager on this lively and very well performed musical. It certainly gave the audience a great show and such a treat after a long period without the joy of live performance.


January 2022



Red Riding Hood

Directed by James Finbow, assisted by Glyn Hill


THE ORCHARD PLAYERS

RED RIDING HOOD

Director James Finbow

Assistant Director Glyn Hill

Musical Director Maria King

Choreographers Charlea Burwood, Bex Nicholls, Lynn Perera and Emma Cole.

Performed at the Capel St Mary Community Centre

9th - 11th January 2020                  

                                                                                   

It is always a pleasure to come to an Orchard Players production as the Front of House team make every member of the audience feel truly welcome. It was really good to have a chance to talk to the directors before the show. Thank you.

The very talented band played a range of music before the action started which created a lively buzz in the large audience.

The opening scenes introduced us to the rather complicated plot and to all the characters in the show. We then very quickly met the 'Baddie', Baroness de Brexit, brilliantly played by Bex Nicholls. Her striking performance throughout the pantomime used every ounce of 'nastiness' which really gave the younger members of the audience something to 'boo'. The relationship with the subtly played 'Dull', Sandra Finbow, was so well done and I was delighted when the 'worm' eventually turned.

Another pairing which worked really well was the beautifully awkward relationship between Timmy and Bo Peep. Ray Seager's gentle 'homage' to Frank Spencer was so effective and his excellent rapport with the audience was a real strength of the piece. Lynn Perera's sweet natured Bo Peep gave just the right response and the audience was truly involved in their romance. I particularly enjoyed their duet 'Don't go Breaking my Heart'.

The heroine and hero of the story, Red Riding Hood and Peter, the Woodcutter were both very well played by Sophie Edwards and Molly Griffin. They showed a youthful joy and just the right amount of sweetness and thigh slapping.

Brian Spalding as Aunt Flo flirted, pranced and danced her way through the show as a real dame should. This was a strong performance with good characterisation. Her pursuit of any eligible male but particularly the hapless Lionel was most entertaining. I loved the varied, slightly outrageous costumes.

Poor earnest Lionel, played by Ian O'Hanlon, got his chance to be a very different character when he was transformed into the Wolf. This was cleverly done with a good voice change and appropriate costume.

PC Billy, Dani Withers, had a pivotal role to play. Making sure that the audience is following the plot is never easy but her timely interventions were vital to the show. Every appearance alerted the audience to what was going to happen next and she did this so well.

The three little pigs played by Gracie Seager, Amber Carney and Zac Scutcher were an interesting but relevant addition to the plot. They all played their parts really well and the younger members of the audience loved them.

The quality of singing and dancing throughout the cast was excellent. All the principals showed strong vocals and were ably supported by both the Adult and Junior chorus. The Floretts were so well choreographed in every number they performed. I particularly enjoyed 'I'm Coming Up' which demonstrated the quality of the backing group and was well enhanced by the lighting team. The dance sequence in the woods was another excellent number. Congratulations to the choreography team. The very deep stage does make it difficult sometimes to see the people at the back when the whole cast is on.

This was a joyful and very well performed pantomime. Every member of the cast showed a liveliness and commitment which gave the audience a great afternoon. The musicians, led by Maria King provided excellent support to the actors. The costumes were brilliant and colourful. I really loved the whole style of the Baroness de Brexit. The lighting and sound always enhanced the action.

Congratulations to the Director James Finbow and Assistant Director Glyn Hill on a lively and thoroughly enjoyable pantomime. The audience, both young and not so young, had a great afternoon.


January 2020



An American In Suffolk



July 2019



Rapunzel


Directed by: Lynn Perera & Julie Wardley
Musical Director: Maria King

17 January 2019

Thank you so much for the very warm welcome given to all the audience by the Front of House team led by Sue Maplestone.

Rapunzel was a new pantomime for me but the story very familiar.  It was immediately evident on entering the Hall that Rapunzel was the subject of the piece with a very impressive tower.

The audience were treated to a lively introduction from Curly and Bob, ably played by Lauren Broom and Neil Jackson.  This duo shone throughout the pantomime showing great comic timing as they joked and capered from scene to scene.

James Finbow, playing Frankie, was another delightful and well acted character.  Son of Dame Trixie, he was always charming and created great rapport with the audience.

His very elegant mother, Dame Trixie, played by Ray Seager,  showed a strong character and filled the stage with her presence.  I missed the usual changes of costume which has become a traditional element of the Dame's role.

Bex Nicholls as Prince Frederick was a very powerful character and superbly played.  Her amazing singing voice and large stage presence lit up the hall.  I detected a touch of 'Ab Fab' in her dialogue which just enhanced the role.

The contrast with the much gentler Rapunzel, played by Charlea Burwood worked really well. Charlea won the sympathy of the whole audience with her lovely portrayal as she endured the thoroughly nasty attention of Fiona Robinson Rogers Wicked Witch.  She managed that amazing hair so well.

Fairy Flora, played by Lola Miller was a real highlight for me.  Her clear diction and confident stage presence shone.  This was a very good and mature characterisation from one so young.

Glyn Hill very ably portrayed King Geoffrey and was well supported by his rather pathetic Queen Gertrude,Sandie Finbow.  Both created a very believable pair.

Lacie, Macie and Gracie played by Sophie Edwards, Emma Cole and Molly Griffin sang, danced and acted with verve and were backed well by their mini versions  Freya Carney, Lily Benmore and Holly Barker.

Rob Dack completed the principal line up as the Captain of the Guard suffering the most unwelcome attentions of Dame Trixie.  But as in all pantomimes, she got her man.

Every member of the large cast projected vitality and joy in their performances.  It was wonderful to see so many young people on stage.  They danced, sang and acted with complete commitment with excellent backing from a very talented band.  Congratulations to the directors  Lynn Perera and Julie Wardley, Musical Director Maria King and all the choreographers.

The whole production team played their part in creating a very successful entertainment. The costumes were bright and lively. The tech team led by Greg Garrad supported the action throughout. The many set changes were well managed and the device of displaying the tower room with links to the very impressive tower was particularly successful.

This was a very long pantomime but understandably so because of the size of the cast.  It was certainly enjoyed by the audience.


January 2019



Oliver


Directed by: Glyn Hill
Musical Director: Maria King


July 2018



Aladdin


Directed by: Rob Maplestone

One of the most colourful sets I have seen in a Pantomime with gorgeous chinese lanterns decorated carts loaded with fruits etc and an overall feel of brightness and right on stage which was
so inviting on entering the hall.

Not quite the usual formula in the cast of "Aladdin" but some great characters all well played.

Playing Aladdin a stalwart of the group James Finbow did really well and sung and acted with confidence, I did feel although a very lowly working class lad his costume was rather drab, but it sort of worked, and a great change when he appeared in a very colourful outfit later on gave the lead character more sparkle.

As Jasmine the Princess, Maddy Mayo looked lovely and sung in a very pretty style and the duets between Aladdin and Jasmine were pleasant and tuneful.

Lauren Broom as Wishee Washee was a "shining star" as always great rapp0rt from Lauren with the audience, and 100% commitment to her character. Great sense of timing and a real pleasure to
watch.

Rob Dade as the wicked Abanazar grew in the character as the show progressed and did a great job. Rob sings very well and "Can't take my Eyes off You" was beautifully sung. Well done!

A very glamorous Widow Twankey from Len Stockdale in some very sophisticated costumes throughout the show. Len worked hard with the audience to involve them in the story.

Lo and Hi played by Emma Cole & Bex Nichols were Abanazar's hench men and worked well together.I thought the choreography was rather repetitious and could have been rather more varied, but both worked hard with a good feel for the character's.

All the junior cast performed well and most of them had lovely smiley faces.

An accomplished Empress of Peking from Lynn Perera.great diction and feel for this part. And a nice character from Sophie as Genie of the lamp.

PC 39 and PC 27 from Sandie Finbow and Pead Attwood added a comic touch to the pantomime, and all in all everyone worked hard.

When on stage it is very important to become the character you are playing and total concentration in the show is so important. This is something which the younger members will learn with more experience.


January 2018



Time After Time


Directed by: Bex Nicholls

A tale of love set sometime over the course of the 1970’s and 1980’s.
Oliver, a free, impulsive young man and Angela, an ambitious girl with dreams, find each other amidst the good times of the 70’s and fall madly in love. There love is tested, however, when Angel announces her departure to the city with family and to pursue her dreams. Was their love all just a teenage fantasy? Years pass. Oliver travels to find Angela and he wants answers. Can they rekindle what they had?
A simple story told with classic, well-loved hits of the 70’s and 80’s, it will have audiences dancing and singing along.


July 2017



Beauty & The Beast


Directed by: Lynn Perera
Musical Director: Maria King

With a script written by Stephen Duckham and inspired by the story of Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, The Orchard Players took a wonderful and magical journey to France, to discover the legend of a Beauty and a Beast.

A very ambitious production for a company of this, size but one which the Orchard Players drove through with some interesting scenes, characters and interpretations.

We had the usual Goodies versus the Baddies, and a junior chorus of around 20 young people who excelled in dance and enthusiasm towards the production. Supported by some adult members the singing was very tuneful.

The solo performance by Steph Porter as the Rose Fairy started the story off really well. A sweet performance by Steph, dressed beautifully as were all the cast throughout the show.

The costumes from the super talented team of Jurae Wardley Cheryll Burton and assistants were as always terrific. A delight of colour, all well fitting and attractive. I must commend the Wardrobe team for all their work and attention to detail.

Now to the main cast,

Emma Cole as Beauty, Bev Nicholls as the Beast, Cheryll Burton as Horrindana, Lauren Broom as Charlie, James Finbow as Prince Rowan, Richard Cavanagh as Madam Lotte and so the list goes on with many supporting characters all working so well together.

So many different characters to comment on but "star stand out" performances by Bex as the Beast with one of the high spots in the show in her solo "Who will love me as I am" performed with such emotion. I loved it!

Lauren as Charlie gave her all and more, a real talent here and one I hope we see many more times, perfect timing, action and 100% on top of the character. Terrific!!

Emma as Beauty looked the part, and gave touching performances in scenes with the Beast, and her Father Panisse, played very well by Peart Attwood.

It was good to see Cheryll playing a "baddie" in Horridana, and as always her songs were well sung and the character well-played.

Here and there one or two lapses in some of the dialogue from one or two cast members which slowed the pace. and I would have liked even more interaction from Madam Lotte with the audience.

Maddy Moyo playing Fifi a very saucy character, surely should have had a French accent which would have added so much more to the fun of the part.

James as Prince Rowan was quite a serious chap, a little more light and shade in his dialogue would have added more to this dashing character.

I liked Molly as Thomas who gave a confidence to the role.

Most of the songs were well chosen, but "Come to the Fair" was not as joyous as it could have been and needed more of a swing to lift it.

The young chorus did so well with the choreography and most of them looked happy and involved.

There were a few gaps in between scene changes which needed speeding up, especially before scene 6, when there was a long wait for the curtain to go up.

Lighting was very good and sound generally, with a few crackling mike's here and there. Great sets very colourful and bright.

When on stage everyone needs to be aware with Patomimes there will be shout out's from the audience which can be difficult, and it is good if just one or two characters on stage such as the Dame or similar ad libs with comments back.

If too many get involved it spoils the standard of the show.

The orchestra under Maria King did really well in supporting the songs and kept a lively pace. The songs tended to be jolly and were good, the one or two slower gentle songs were a direct change in tempo's and gave another dimension to the production.

All in all a very good Panto and one which the audience enjoyed very much.

I always enjoy my visits to Capel, thank you for your warm welcome on FOH and also meeting up with production members and committee, much appreciated.


January 2017



Jukebox Summertime


Directed by: Val Munns
Musical Director: Maria King

With a summer vibe that'll put a smile on anyone's face, The Orchard Players bring back the songs of the Jukebox era of the 1960's.

I received a lovely warm welcome from Sue Maplestone and the Front of House team. The open stage had a very striking set along the theme of an American diner on stage which was vibrant and well constructed and flowed into the downstage exterior set. all of which were very well designed, constructed and painted by Len and Val Munns, Kyle Watts and Emma Cranwell, Who also provided the props. The colourful wardrobe and costumes were put together extremely well by the team, in keeping with the era and beautifully made in some cases. The sound and lighting design was varied and well applied, however there were one or two sound issues with personal mic packs that could have been avoided. Lynne Peera and Emma cote's choreography was very good for the most part however it did took a little regimented, maybe in future you could look at taking advantage of the dual levels and vary the moves accordingly. Also whilst I am impressed with the achievement of getting every member of the cast on stage, I do think that sometimes less is more, because you allow the cast more space for movement and expression. The band under the musical direction of Maria King were brilliant and clearly loved the songs that they were playing. With a review like this it is the job of the Director and Assistant, Val and Len Munns 􀄥 to pick the best songs that tell the back story, as there was in this production with music from the fifties and sixties and get the performers to bring them to life with their talent and performance. I think that Val and Len should be very proud of their cast and crew as they all did a great job. I really felt that after many months of waiting that summer had finally arrived in Capel St Mary. Ella Cooper and Hadyen Wise provided an extra special touch of class with their superb ballroom standard dancing.

This was a show full of fun arid enjoyment that was thoroughly enjoyed by the cast, myself and the audience in equal measure.


July 2016



Peter Pan


Directed by: Rob Maplestone

Second star to the right, straight on till morning!
Fly away with The Orchard Players to the magical world of Neverland!
Join Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Wendy and the rest of the timeless characters as they encounter Red Indians, Mermaids, and Pirates!
See Neverland brought to life like never before, all you need is faith, trust, and a little pixie dust.

The transformation of the hall was impressive, with a total tum around from the staging and set we have been used to seeing over many years.

The audience sat around the stage so all the action was focussed on movement ever changing.

The opening and general feel of this production was very colourful with some superb costumes under the expertise of Julie Warclley assisted by Tonicha Rice, in fact some of the best costumes in Panto I have seen this season.

Mainly the songs chosen for the show were well known, albeit I felt some fitted better with the-theme and story line rather more than others.

Peter Pan was very enthusiastically played by Kerrie Webster who gave her all for the entire performance. A very confident strong character with a strong singing voice and a great costume and look.

Tinkerbell with Hannah Cocks was very sweet, and with her gestures in place of dialogue it was a well played role.

The Darling family of Father played by Rob Maplestone Mother played by Hanna Nunn, Michael Darling with Sam Rumbelow and John played by Minnie Gilbert and Wendy played by Emma Cole were fine. Perhaps Minnie (playing John) would have looked more like a boy with her hair tied back?

All the children in the cast did very well and looked as if they were enjoying themselves with confident appearances on stage.

Leading the Pirates was Bex Nicholls as Captain Hook in a most resplendent costume. As always Bex gave a very talented confident performance.

The cast had a lot of movement, and I do understand it needed to be so the audience could see all the action with the new lay out of the stage, but there were times it needed to slow down for solo's in particular, when just simply to stand and sing would have added more to the feel of the songs "On My Own" sung so well by Madison Mayo as Tager Lily, and a duet later on in the show with Hook and Peter for instance, are those that spring to mind.

I find the part of Smee a really complex character who needs to have a sense of fun, but dominated and rather afraid of Hook. James Fimbow always works so hard to involve the audience, which can be difficult depending on the audience's reaction. I felt more animation and life would have added to this character.

I find some of the dialogue difficult to hear despite the cast all using head mic's, lt is so important to get the sound (when using backing tracks under speaking) really well balanced.

Hannah gave the young people some good choreography which they performed

really well.

Overall a credit to Rob and the team in giving a new look and feel for the audiences enjoyment.

This group has a very loyal following which is an indication of the reputation here.


January 2016



Lets Go To The Movies


Directed by: Cheryll Burton

The concept of the show was a mixture of songs from well known movies, to include both adult and junior members of the society, with narration in between groupings.

A Jot of preparation, thought, and work had gone into the choices of songs from way back films up to the present day.

In Act 1 the range from "Moon River" from "Breakfast at Tiffany's" through to a selection including "Bugsy Malone" with the Junior members, “Bang Bang (The Great Gatsby) and ending with ""Singing in the Rain" was enjoyable.

There were lots of soloist's to name them all and generally all performed very well, however I would have liked to see rather more expression on some faces, especially when performing solo's, which adds a brightness and brings a song to life.

Some of the numbers were quite difficult and challenging, and there was a tentative start to some.

The dance routines were very good and the company did very well. The age ranges of the juniors included some quite young children and I did feel they were stretched coping with singing and dancing.

I commend Cheryll and Linda for all their hard work and encouragement with the younger people and having some of the older girls choreographing numbers which gives them confidence and an added interest to take part in the shows.

In Act 11 starting with "76 Trombones" from "The Music Man" the sound levels varied rather but a very packed act with some great songs from "Oliver”, "Moulin Rouge", "Skyfall”, “Armageddon," to name just some.

For me the star performances came from Gary Burton .and Becky Thomas singing "Come what May", and "Out of Reach" with Hanna Herschell and Lynn Perera.

Both these numbers had meaning and were sung with feeling and Bex Nicholls really excelled with the lovely "Skyfall" from the Bond movie, beautifully sung as did Linda Garrad with "Don't Want to Miss a Thing” from "Armageddon"

The show finished with "Happy" a jolly number which we hear so much on TV. Again great work from Cheryll and Linda with the company, and as always we need our more senior members for experience and confidence to back the young people.

A really hot afternoon for the company to perform and then follow it again in the evening.

Well done to you all, and I see from the programme you are already looking to the next production "Peter Pan" the pantomime. Forward thinking so essential to keep up your reputation and commitment to Musical Theatre.


July 2015



Jack And The Beanstalk


Directed by: Rob Maplestone


January 2015



Jukebox Journey


Directed by: Val Munns
Musical Director: Maria King

For an evening of pure nostalgia the Orchard Players really stepped up to the mark with a selection of 50s and 60s songs linked together so well, and told a story along the way. This show had the audience singing and clapping along to most all of the numbers.

Devised by Val and Len Munns it took us on a Jukebox Journey with a great selection of soloists and very popular songs.

The set was excellent a typical diner complete with juke box, stylish bar stools and flashing signs which were so colourful. The wall paintings of cars from the period all add to the bright effect as the audience entered the hall.

There were far too many soloists to mention and all did so well, but “stand out” numbers for me were "Stupid Cupid" and Lipstick on your Collar" with Bex and the Juniors all in good form.

I also loved "Pink Shoelaces" with Adrian and Julie. "Does your Chewing Gum lose it’s Flavour" with both the Len's and "Chantilly Lace" with Big Bopper Adrian were fantastic.

Also "Come Outside" from Adrian and Pearl was such a great number and played so well, and James for "Times they are a Changing" with James playing solo guitar, and the last numbers in the show" Aquarius" and "Let the Sun Shine In" with Julie and the entire company brought back many memories and closed the programme.

Great credit must go to the entire company with some real energy on stage which came over to the audience.

Maria King as MD is also to be congratulated for her sterling work on keyboard along with a small band totally supporting the singers, and as I understand Maria did a great deal of the arrangements for the group. Well done!

Well done also to Val and Len for the original idea and to Val for her overall direction of the show which kept the pace going throughout.

I would also like to mention the costumes which are always so professional looking with The Orchard Players, and in this production a lot of work must have gone into researching the styles of the period which were spot on. Julie and her team did exceptionally well. Many Congratulations.

The next production will be the Pantomime which is already in hand. Forward thinking as time marches on. I look forward to" Jack and the Beanstalk" in January 2015.


July 2014



Happy Ever After


Directed by: Damien Laverty
Musical Director: Maria King

A very different script and innovative story line where all the "baddies" really want to be good. Written and Directed by Damien Laverty assisted by Giles Meehan. Giles also composed all the songs in the show. This was a first production and a very interesting story line with all the favourite characters from all the Pantomime characters with a dash of Nursery Rhyme characters to boot.

John Hoskyns as Mother Molly Mary Moo Mud Pie (Yes that was her name) was excellent with some very flamboyant costumes and worked the audience well.

There were too many named characters to mention each and every one but I would like to comment on Bex Nicholls as Buttons and Sandie Finbow as The Wicked Witch. Both got right into their characters and worked hard at the interpretations.

With a brand new script and songs it took a while to get all the characters sorted.

To see it a second time a lot of the "inhouse" humour would have been appreciated more.

I did think Act 1 was overlong, finishing with a rather long song which might need looking at from Giles to see if it could be shortened perhaps?

Costumes in general were bright and attractive but there was rather a mixed bag with some characters A little more attention on hemlines and tidy looking costumes is always best checked before going on to the stage, and would have given a more professional look.

There were a few times in the performance I attended when cast on the stage were kept waiting for other cast to come on and carry on with the story. This really needed to be slicker to keep the pace flowing.

The singing was pleasant and most of the cast know all the Words. I say most as there was one or two who really needed to have worked harder at words and movements.

It can be very useful to young people who have not been in a show before to be given help through the process with the transition from rehearsal room to stage. It is a very different when first on a stage with nerves etc with a haft full of people watching you, and it is important that the younger members are given confidence. A little gentle advice re stage rules usually works.

All in all though I commend both Damien and Giles for all their work and with a bit of tweeking here and there this will be a great show for other groups to consider in the future.

As always a really warm welcome on our arrival and it was good to meet up with you all again.

I look forward to your next production.


January 2014



Previous Shows


 


Rapunzel


Directed by: Lynn Perera & Julie Wardley
Musical Director: Maria King

17 January 2019

Thank you so much for the very warm welcome given to all the audience by the Front of House team led by Sue Maplestone.

Rapunzel was a new pantomime for me but the story very familiar.  It was immediately evident on entering the Hall that Rapunzel was the subject of the piece with a very impressive tower.

The audience were treated to a lively introduction from Curly and Bob, ably played by Lauren Broom and Neil Jackson.  This duo shone throughout the pantomime showing great comic timing as they joked and capered from scene to scene.

James Finbow, playing Frankie, was another delightful and well acted character.  Son of Dame Trixie, he was always charming and created great rapport with the audience.

His very elegant mother, Dame Trixie, played by Ray Seager,  showed a strong character and filled the stage with her presence.  I missed the usual changes of costume which has become a traditional element of the Dame's role.

Bex Nicholls as Prince Frederick was a very powerful character and superbly played.  Her amazing singing voice and large stage presence lit up the hall.  I detected a touch of 'Ab Fab' in her dialogue which just enhanced the role.

The contrast with the much gentler Rapunzel, played by Charlea Burwood worked really well. Charlea won the sympathy of the whole audience with her lovely portrayal as she endured the thoroughly nasty attention of Fiona Robinson Rogers Wicked Witch.  She managed that amazing hair so well.

Fairy Flora, played by Lola Miller was a real highlight for me.  Her clear diction and confident stage presence shone.  This was a very good and mature characterisation from one so young.

Glyn Hill very ably portrayed King Geoffrey and was well supported by his rather pathetic Queen Gertrude,Sandie Finbow.  Both created a very believable pair.

Lacie, Macie and Gracie played by Sophie Edwards, Emma Cole and Molly Griffin sang, danced and acted with verve and were backed well by their mini versions  Freya Carney, Lily Benmore and Holly Barker.

Rob Dack completed the principal line up as the Captain of the Guard suffering the most unwelcome attentions of Dame Trixie.  But as in all pantomimes, she got her man.

Every member of the large cast projected vitality and joy in their performances.  It was wonderful to see so many young people on stage.  They danced, sang and acted with complete commitment with excellent backing from a very talented band.  Congratulations to the directors  Lynn Perera and Julie Wardley, Musical Director Maria King and all the choreographers.

The whole production team played their part in creating a very successful entertainment. The costumes were bright and lively. The tech team led by Greg Garrad supported the action throughout. The many set changes were well managed and the device of displaying the tower room with links to the very impressive tower was particularly successful.

This was a very long pantomime but understandably so because of the size of the cast.  It was certainly enjoyed by the audience.


January 2019



Oliver


Directed by: Glyn Hill
Musical Director: Maria King


July 2018



Aladdin


Directed by: Rob Maplestone

One of the most colourful sets I have seen in a Pantomime with gorgeous chinese lanterns decorated carts loaded with fruits etc and an overall feel of brightness and right on stage which was
so inviting on entering the hall.

Not quite the usual formula in the cast of "Aladdin" but some great characters all well played.

Playing Aladdin a stalwart of the group James Finbow did really well and sung and acted with confidence, I did feel although a very lowly working class lad his costume was rather drab, but it sort of worked, and a great change when he appeared in a very colourful outfit later on gave the lead character more sparkle.

As Jasmine the Princess, Maddy Mayo looked lovely and sung in a very pretty style and the duets between Aladdin and Jasmine were pleasant and tuneful.

Lauren Broom as Wishee Washee was a "shining star" as always great rapp0rt from Lauren with the audience, and 100% commitment to her character. Great sense of timing and a real pleasure to
watch.

Rob Dade as the wicked Abanazar grew in the character as the show progressed and did a great job. Rob sings very well and "Can't take my Eyes off You" was beautifully sung. Well done!

A very glamorous Widow Twankey from Len Stockdale in some very sophisticated costumes throughout the show. Len worked hard with the audience to involve them in the story.

Lo and Hi played by Emma Cole & Bex Nichols were Abanazar's hench men and worked well together.I thought the choreography was rather repetitious and could have been rather more varied, but both worked hard with a good feel for the character's.

All the junior cast performed well and most of them had lovely smiley faces.

An accomplished Empress of Peking from Lynn Perera.great diction and feel for this part. And a nice character from Sophie as Genie of the lamp.

PC 39 and PC 27 from Sandie Finbow and Pead Attwood added a comic touch to the pantomime, and all in all everyone worked hard.

When on stage it is very important to become the character you are playing and total concentration in the show is so important. This is something which the younger members will learn with more experience.


January 2018



Time After Time


Directed by: Bex Nicholls

A tale of love set sometime over the course of the 1970’s and 1980’s.
Oliver, a free, impulsive young man and Angela, an ambitious girl with dreams, find each other amidst the good times of the 70’s and fall madly in love. There love is tested, however, when Angel announces her departure to the city with family and to pursue her dreams. Was their love all just a teenage fantasy? Years pass. Oliver travels to find Angela and he wants answers. Can they rekindle what they had?
A simple story told with classic, well-loved hits of the 70’s and 80’s, it will have audiences dancing and singing along.


July 2017



Beauty & The Beast


Directed by: Lynn Perera
Musical Director: Maria King

With a script written by Stephen Duckham and inspired by the story of Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, The Orchard Players took a wonderful and magical journey to France, to discover the legend of a Beauty and a Beast.

A very ambitious production for a company of this, size but one which the Orchard Players drove through with some interesting scenes, characters and interpretations.

We had the usual Goodies versus the Baddies, and a junior chorus of around 20 young people who excelled in dance and enthusiasm towards the production. Supported by some adult members the singing was very tuneful.

The solo performance by Steph Porter as the Rose Fairy started the story off really well. A sweet performance by Steph, dressed beautifully as were all the cast throughout the show.

The costumes from the super talented team of Jurae Wardley Cheryll Burton and assistants were as always terrific. A delight of colour, all well fitting and attractive. I must commend the Wardrobe team for all their work and attention to detail.

Now to the main cast,

Emma Cole as Beauty, Bev Nicholls as the Beast, Cheryll Burton as Horrindana, Lauren Broom as Charlie, James Finbow as Prince Rowan, Richard Cavanagh as Madam Lotte and so the list goes on with many supporting characters all working so well together.

So many different characters to comment on but "star stand out" performances by Bex as the Beast with one of the high spots in the show in her solo "Who will love me as I am" performed with such emotion. I loved it!

Lauren as Charlie gave her all and more, a real talent here and one I hope we see many more times, perfect timing, action and 100% on top of the character. Terrific!!

Emma as Beauty looked the part, and gave touching performances in scenes with the Beast, and her Father Panisse, played very well by Peart Attwood.

It was good to see Cheryll playing a "baddie" in Horridana, and as always her songs were well sung and the character well-played.

Here and there one or two lapses in some of the dialogue from one or two cast members which slowed the pace. and I would have liked even more interaction from Madam Lotte with the audience.

Maddy Moyo playing Fifi a very saucy character, surely should have had a French accent which would have added so much more to the fun of the part.

James as Prince Rowan was quite a serious chap, a little more light and shade in his dialogue would have added more to this dashing character.

I liked Molly as Thomas who gave a confidence to the role.

Most of the songs were well chosen, but "Come to the Fair" was not as joyous as it could have been and needed more of a swing to lift it.

The young chorus did so well with the choreography and most of them looked happy and involved.

There were a few gaps in between scene changes which needed speeding up, especially before scene 6, when there was a long wait for the curtain to go up.

Lighting was very good and sound generally, with a few crackling mike's here and there. Great sets very colourful and bright.

When on stage everyone needs to be aware with Patomimes there will be shout out's from the audience which can be difficult, and it is good if just one or two characters on stage such as the Dame or similar ad libs with comments back.

If too many get involved it spoils the standard of the show.

The orchestra under Maria King did really well in supporting the songs and kept a lively pace. The songs tended to be jolly and were good, the one or two slower gentle songs were a direct change in tempo's and gave another dimension to the production.

All in all a very good Panto and one which the audience enjoyed very much.

I always enjoy my visits to Capel, thank you for your warm welcome on FOH and also meeting up with production members and committee, much appreciated.


January 2017



Jukebox Summertime


Directed by: Val Munns
Musical Director: Maria King

With a summer vibe that'll put a smile on anyone's face, The Orchard Players bring back the songs of the Jukebox era of the 1960's.

I received a lovely warm welcome from Sue Maplestone and the Front of House team. The open stage had a very striking set along the theme of an American diner on stage which was vibrant and well constructed and flowed into the downstage exterior set. all of which were very well designed, constructed and painted by Len and Val Munns, Kyle Watts and Emma Cranwell, Who also provided the props. The colourful wardrobe and costumes were put together extremely well by the team, in keeping with the era and beautifully made in some cases. The sound and lighting design was varied and well applied, however there were one or two sound issues with personal mic packs that could have been avoided. Lynne Peera and Emma cote's choreography was very good for the most part however it did took a little regimented, maybe in future you could look at taking advantage of the dual levels and vary the moves accordingly. Also whilst I am impressed with the achievement of getting every member of the cast on stage, I do think that sometimes less is more, because you allow the cast more space for movement and expression. The band under the musical direction of Maria King were brilliant and clearly loved the songs that they were playing. With a review like this it is the job of the Director and Assistant, Val and Len Munns 􀄥 to pick the best songs that tell the back story, as there was in this production with music from the fifties and sixties and get the performers to bring them to life with their talent and performance. I think that Val and Len should be very proud of their cast and crew as they all did a great job. I really felt that after many months of waiting that summer had finally arrived in Capel St Mary. Ella Cooper and Hadyen Wise provided an extra special touch of class with their superb ballroom standard dancing.

This was a show full of fun arid enjoyment that was thoroughly enjoyed by the cast, myself and the audience in equal measure.


July 2016



Peter Pan


Directed by: Rob Maplestone

Second star to the right, straight on till morning!
Fly away with The Orchard Players to the magical world of Neverland!
Join Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Wendy and the rest of the timeless characters as they encounter Red Indians, Mermaids, and Pirates!
See Neverland brought to life like never before, all you need is faith, trust, and a little pixie dust.

The transformation of the hall was impressive, with a total tum around from the staging and set we have been used to seeing over many years.

The audience sat around the stage so all the action was focussed on movement ever changing.

The opening and general feel of this production was very colourful with some superb costumes under the expertise of Julie Warclley assisted by Tonicha Rice, in fact some of the best costumes in Panto I have seen this season.

Mainly the songs chosen for the show were well known, albeit I felt some fitted better with the-theme and story line rather more than others.

Peter Pan was very enthusiastically played by Kerrie Webster who gave her all for the entire performance. A very confident strong character with a strong singing voice and a great costume and look.

Tinkerbell with Hannah Cocks was very sweet, and with her gestures in place of dialogue it was a well played role.

The Darling family of Father played by Rob Maplestone Mother played by Hanna Nunn, Michael Darling with Sam Rumbelow and John played by Minnie Gilbert and Wendy played by Emma Cole were fine. Perhaps Minnie (playing John) would have looked more like a boy with her hair tied back?

All the children in the cast did very well and looked as if they were enjoying themselves with confident appearances on stage.

Leading the Pirates was Bex Nicholls as Captain Hook in a most resplendent costume. As always Bex gave a very talented confident performance.

The cast had a lot of movement, and I do understand it needed to be so the audience could see all the action with the new lay out of the stage, but there were times it needed to slow down for solo's in particular, when just simply to stand and sing would have added more to the feel of the songs "On My Own" sung so well by Madison Mayo as Tager Lily, and a duet later on in the show with Hook and Peter for instance, are those that spring to mind.

I find the part of Smee a really complex character who needs to have a sense of fun, but dominated and rather afraid of Hook. James Fimbow always works so hard to involve the audience, which can be difficult depending on the audience's reaction. I felt more animation and life would have added to this character.

I find some of the dialogue difficult to hear despite the cast all using head mic's, lt is so important to get the sound (when using backing tracks under speaking) really well balanced.

Hannah gave the young people some good choreography which they performed

really well.

Overall a credit to Rob and the team in giving a new look and feel for the audiences enjoyment.

This group has a very loyal following which is an indication of the reputation here.


January 2016



Lets Go To The Movies


Directed by: Cheryll Burton

The concept of the show was a mixture of songs from well known movies, to include both adult and junior members of the society, with narration in between groupings.

A Jot of preparation, thought, and work had gone into the choices of songs from way back films up to the present day.

In Act 1 the range from "Moon River" from "Breakfast at Tiffany's" through to a selection including "Bugsy Malone" with the Junior members, “Bang Bang (The Great Gatsby) and ending with ""Singing in the Rain" was enjoyable.

There were lots of soloist's to name them all and generally all performed very well, however I would have liked to see rather more expression on some faces, especially when performing solo's, which adds a brightness and brings a song to life.

Some of the numbers were quite difficult and challenging, and there was a tentative start to some.

The dance routines were very good and the company did very well. The age ranges of the juniors included some quite young children and I did feel they were stretched coping with singing and dancing.

I commend Cheryll and Linda for all their hard work and encouragement with the younger people and having some of the older girls choreographing numbers which gives them confidence and an added interest to take part in the shows.

In Act 11 starting with "76 Trombones" from "The Music Man" the sound levels varied rather but a very packed act with some great songs from "Oliver”, "Moulin Rouge", "Skyfall”, “Armageddon," to name just some.

For me the star performances came from Gary Burton .and Becky Thomas singing "Come what May", and "Out of Reach" with Hanna Herschell and Lynn Perera.

Both these numbers had meaning and were sung with feeling and Bex Nicholls really excelled with the lovely "Skyfall" from the Bond movie, beautifully sung as did Linda Garrad with "Don't Want to Miss a Thing” from "Armageddon"

The show finished with "Happy" a jolly number which we hear so much on TV. Again great work from Cheryll and Linda with the company, and as always we need our more senior members for experience and confidence to back the young people.

A really hot afternoon for the company to perform and then follow it again in the evening.

Well done to you all, and I see from the programme you are already looking to the next production "Peter Pan" the pantomime. Forward thinking so essential to keep up your reputation and commitment to Musical Theatre.


July 2015



Jack And The Beanstalk


Directed by: Rob Maplestone


January 2015



Jukebox Journey


Directed by: Val Munns
Musical Director: Maria King

For an evening of pure nostalgia the Orchard Players really stepped up to the mark with a selection of 50s and 60s songs linked together so well, and told a story along the way. This show had the audience singing and clapping along to most all of the numbers.

Devised by Val and Len Munns it took us on a Jukebox Journey with a great selection of soloists and very popular songs.

The set was excellent a typical diner complete with juke box, stylish bar stools and flashing signs which were so colourful. The wall paintings of cars from the period all add to the bright effect as the audience entered the hall.

There were far too many soloists to mention and all did so well, but “stand out” numbers for me were "Stupid Cupid" and Lipstick on your Collar" with Bex and the Juniors all in good form.

I also loved "Pink Shoelaces" with Adrian and Julie. "Does your Chewing Gum lose it’s Flavour" with both the Len's and "Chantilly Lace" with Big Bopper Adrian were fantastic.

Also "Come Outside" from Adrian and Pearl was such a great number and played so well, and James for "Times they are a Changing" with James playing solo guitar, and the last numbers in the show" Aquarius" and "Let the Sun Shine In" with Julie and the entire company brought back many memories and closed the programme.

Great credit must go to the entire company with some real energy on stage which came over to the audience.

Maria King as MD is also to be congratulated for her sterling work on keyboard along with a small band totally supporting the singers, and as I understand Maria did a great deal of the arrangements for the group. Well done!

Well done also to Val and Len for the original idea and to Val for her overall direction of the show which kept the pace going throughout.

I would also like to mention the costumes which are always so professional looking with The Orchard Players, and in this production a lot of work must have gone into researching the styles of the period which were spot on. Julie and her team did exceptionally well. Many Congratulations.

The next production will be the Pantomime which is already in hand. Forward thinking as time marches on. I look forward to" Jack and the Beanstalk" in January 2015.


July 2014



Happy Ever After


Directed by: Damien Laverty
Musical Director: Maria King

A very different script and innovative story line where all the "baddies" really want to be good. Written and Directed by Damien Laverty assisted by Giles Meehan. Giles also composed all the songs in the show. This was a first production and a very interesting story line with all the favourite characters from all the Pantomime characters with a dash of Nursery Rhyme characters to boot.

John Hoskyns as Mother Molly Mary Moo Mud Pie (Yes that was her name) was excellent with some very flamboyant costumes and worked the audience well.

There were too many named characters to mention each and every one but I would like to comment on Bex Nicholls as Buttons and Sandie Finbow as The Wicked Witch. Both got right into their characters and worked hard at the interpretations.

With a brand new script and songs it took a while to get all the characters sorted.

To see it a second time a lot of the "inhouse" humour would have been appreciated more.

I did think Act 1 was overlong, finishing with a rather long song which might need looking at from Giles to see if it could be shortened perhaps?

Costumes in general were bright and attractive but there was rather a mixed bag with some characters A little more attention on hemlines and tidy looking costumes is always best checked before going on to the stage, and would have given a more professional look.

There were a few times in the performance I attended when cast on the stage were kept waiting for other cast to come on and carry on with the story. This really needed to be slicker to keep the pace flowing.

The singing was pleasant and most of the cast know all the Words. I say most as there was one or two who really needed to have worked harder at words and movements.

It can be very useful to young people who have not been in a show before to be given help through the process with the transition from rehearsal room to stage. It is a very different when first on a stage with nerves etc with a haft full of people watching you, and it is important that the younger members are given confidence. A little gentle advice re stage rules usually works.

All in all though I commend both Damien and Giles for all their work and with a bit of tweeking here and there this will be a great show for other groups to consider in the future.

As always a really warm welcome on our arrival and it was good to meet up with you all again.

I look forward to your next production.


January 2014