Chipperfield Theatre Group (CTG) has been performing annual pantomimes for 27 years, to full houses in the village hall: the area’s social hub. This year’s ‘Jack and the Bean Stalk’ was similarly played before a sea of eager faces.
The crew consists of around 40 individuals, including a director, choreographer and stage manager. The cast is made up of local people aged 7 to 70, who support each other in their different roles. One of the youngest actresses (Bethany Smith, aged 7) expresses that she ‘loves performing with lots of different types of people’ and says that ‘it is always so funny,’ She wants to encourage anyone of any gender or age to join CTG or a similar alternative.
Bringing the local community together, this electric atmosphere is a great social event and showcases the extensive local talent. Refreshments are served in the interval; offering beverages and snacks, during this Christmas-themed pantomime.
Of course, no pantomime would be complete without the famous Dame (Martin Brett) bringing classic slapstick humour to the stage, to ensure both the children and the parents were constantly engaged. The characters had us all involved and in the Pantomime spirit; hissing and cheering and even pretending to be mice!
CTG are currently looking for a ‘creative and enthusiastic’ director for November 2020, who will run auditions, select cast and propose scripts – with help from the rest of the team. Any interested parties should contact Wendy East (director of this year’s show) on 01923266678.
by Megan Bantleman
