Guest Review by Wendy Boother
Do you like a Pantomime? Well, the people of Mendlesham do. After a successful 2024, they booked Chaplins Pantos again and this year, it was Dick Whittington.
It’s a traditional panto, aimed at primary school children, with a loose folk tale strung together with songs, dancing and shenanigans that prompt a reaction, delighting the audience every few minutes. It was lovely to see the children fully engaged and how well the cast ad-libbed with them in return.
Patric Schwaab, who played Captain Blood, was a great ‘baddie’ who attracted boo’s and hisses and managed to retrieve his dropped hat with aplomb (or was that well scripted?) Isobel Pearson, who played Dick, was the perfect lead with a clear voice and the right mix of earnest planning and distracted fun. Hannah Beales, who played Jack, was full of energy with great facial expressions and ended the panto on a level with the kids.
There’s no doubt that this touring troupe can manage costume changes, props and scenery to give everyone a good time. Adults and children alike. I’ll bet Mendlesham will make this an annual booking. Oh yes, they will!
To find out more about Chaplins Panto visit their website here.
SUFFOLK THEATRE 