January 2000 - Sing a Song of Sixpence

Here's the text (with added pictures) of the review of this year's pantomime in the Eastleigh Weekly.

More laughs at Chandler's Ford

Best place for panto? Chameleon Theatre in Chandler's Ford is still in the running for that title.

Its current production, Sing a Song of Sixpence, contains little of the toe-curling embarrassment often associated with amateurs trying to be funny.

Few of Chameleon's panto stalwarts are taking part this time. Amazingly, the clean sweep has made little difference to Liz Taylor. As director, she has found fresh talent with the confidence that allows punters to relax add enjoy themselves. Take Dave Wilkins. Last time he trod the boards in Hursley Road, he was reading from a book drafted in to read a part at short notice. This time he was one of a pair of clowns, and drew the most applause and the loudest laughter. The audience loved his clumsiness and idiotic shouting. Liz and Dave as Flip and Flop

Jan Bradshaw was hilarious as the queen. Nothing was held back by Colin Davey who, as the dame, put eggs into a cake mix without removing them from the box. Colin, with Wayne Bradshaw as Simple Simon

Long-suffering Andrew Craddock had something of a bank manager about him, as the mild-mannered and likeable king. His majesty's righthand man, Derek Marks, used his gravelly voice to Shakespearian effect.

Kim Pritchard (15), of Toynbee School, delighted as the gypsy princess, despite taking over the role only three weeks ago. George Hayter, Eastleigh Weekly

Here's a selection of photos taken by members of the company; click on any of the small pictures to see a bigger version.
	Tech rehearsal - the lighting experts ponder and despair!
Will we get the set changed in time?
	There have to be some compensations for sitting in that tiny corner all week - Joy, our prompt, with Dave Wilkins, Flip
	Organised Chaos? Dress rehearsal for Sing a Song of Sixpence
And here's most of the cast, ready and waiting for "Beginners, please!"