NODA Report

Author: Joe Clarke

NODA Award Winning Burtonwood Amateur Music & Drama Society are back on stage this week with their delayed pantomime production of Happily Ever After. Having been delayed due to the worldwide pandemic, this production finally made it to the stage to a great first night audience. Written and directed by AMADS committee member Mary Anne Gleeson, this script gave opportunities to all of the vast cast of members that a ‘general’ pantomime script might not have.  Each member was given their chance to shine on stage and I could tell that great fun was being had by all. The writing was good, with jokes for both adults and children. The storyline was easy to follow and despite not being a fan of traditional tale pantomimes, this was one of the best versions that I’ve seen in a while. The direction was generally good. I didn’t mind the scene changes, even if they were a little too loud behind the front cloth, and the scenes were generally well thought out. Some of the transitions of the ending of scenes into the next scene could’ve been more seamless, and the pace of the scenes been a little more up-tempo, but overall, the audience were engaged throughout and laughed and booed in all of the right places.

The choreography was actually quite good, and we were treated to a variety of dance styles. I could tell that a lot of hard work has gone into the choreography and all cast members were well rehearsed. Well done to choreographer, Bianca Tranter. The tap routine to Crazy Horses was a lovely touch!

Using tracks as a backing track to songs can be slightly difficult if the actor has any timing issues. Sadly, there were maybe a few first night nerves for a few, which meant that the timing of some songs was off slightly. I liked some of the tracks used and they (as well as the song choices) complimented the scenes well. The levels of the mics were the biggest issue as a lot were either not turned on or the levels were not correct. Again, this might be down to first night jitters. Because the room is small, I could still hear mainly every word, but it was harder to hear people singing when the tracks were played. The lighting was overall effective, if a little basic. A few times actors didn’t hit their spot, but this was well covered by the lighting team.

I have to say, a lot of hard work has gone into both costume and set design and your hard work did not go unnoticed. The painting of the backdrops was particularly very good – the castle scene in Sir Render’s Grand Hall looked really effective! Well done to the set and costume team (Helen McNicholas & Julie Ratcliffe) for your obvious hard work.

I could tell from the opening few scenes that some of the cast were a little nervous, with some forgetting lines and cues etc. However, being off the stage for the last two-years; this was highly understandable. There was a general huge amount of fun, laughter, energy and enthusiasm to entertain this supportive audience which made the whole evening that little bit more enjoyable. It was great to see various family members on stage together, with the younger ones bring up the ranks, thus leading the way for future years for this wonderful society. There are far too many characters for me to mention by name, but you all played your part, and all positively contributed to this great production.

If I may single out a few of the leading roles…

Jayne Harnick was great as the Narrator Karry Oakey (great name). Her vocals for Half The World Away were fab! Mary Anne Gleeson was funny as Father Goose. I loved the gag about the beard and moustache for each scene! I personally would’ve preferred a little ‘more evil’ (but that’s because I’m evil inside too)! Megan Ratcliffe and Sally Rice were good as the comedy double act: The W Squad. I liked the added handshake thing you guys had between the two of you – a nice touch. Brodie Roblin was suitably funny and dry as Dobbin and a great support for the fabulous Sir Render, played brilliantly by Jess Ratcliffe. Jess’s commitment to character was brilliant! Annie Taylor was able to showcase her lovely singing in Wanabee (This song was one of the highlights). Leigh Nash was very well cast as the panto Dame (Cansmella-Longbottom-Burp) and gave great diction, vocals and storytelling – one to watch out for!

I also really enjoyed George Goddard’s Prince Charming – great casting! As well as his sidekick Tony, played by Matthew Gleeson. A special mention has to go to Rebekah Denton’s overacting as Sleeping Beauty which was brilliant! I also couldn’t take my eyes off Bianca Tranter in every dance number, who, despite being pregnant, shone bright!

This was a funny and entertaining pantomime and despite a few first night jitters, I could tell that each cast member loved being on stage – which is what it’s all about! Technically, there is still some work to do to really use lights, music and sound to enhance the production values. However, sometimes you have to work with what you’re given, and this society certainly do just that. It was great to see so many familiar and new faces on the St Michael’s stage. Your energy and enthusiasm were infectious and the whole cast scenes and numbers were joyful. I thank Burtonwood AMADS for their wonderful hospitality and I wish them all the very best for future productions!

I dedicate this review to the late (and wonderful) Terry O’Neill (Honorary member of Burtonwood AMADS).