The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

It was a pleasure to have again visited with Parish Players for this production of their winter pantomime – ‘The Wizard of Oz’. Everyone knows the classical 1939 film starring the legendary Judy Garland as Dorothy. Written by Nigel Holmes, and based upon the original L Frank Baum book, the story does include the quest for Scarecrow’s brain, Tin Man’s heart, Lion’s courage and Dorothy’s way home to Kansas. Also included are a host of other pantomime characters making little else was recognisable however…

Congratulations must first be given to Peri Kennedy (Director), Angela Kinsella (Assistant Director) and Nick Roberts (Musical Director) for the overall success of this production. I found it to be most entertaining, full of humour, bad puns and ‘double entendre’– exactly what was expected from a pantomime! Not busy enough in her AD role, Angela also took on responsibilities as Choreographer ensuring this was bright and suitable for all abilities and styles. The small band played sympathetically for those on stage and added lots of noisy effects when appropriate!

Every pantomime must also include both good and bad characters, at least one ‘it’s behind you’ moment and plenty of ‘oh yes it is…’ moments to encourage audience interaction. The unexpected inclusion of a Dame, a Prince, a Princess and an all-purpose comedy duo really did feel like two pantomimes in one.

Imogen Parry was delightful as Dorothy and, for one so young, appeared to handle the challenge of this role with apparent ease. Barely leaving the stage throughout the pantomime, Imogen interacted well with the entire cast and was a delight to watch perform. Carrying Toto, actually a small toy dog, in her basket all the time added several opportunities for additional laughter.

Richard Broughton was very funny as Aunt Em and provided that ‘larger than life’ Panto Dame character audiences greatly enjoy watching onstage. Plenty of bad jokes, innuendoes and audience interaction demonstrated a confidence from someone who I’m suspecting has filled a Panto Dame role before?

The introduction of the characters Scarecrow (David Brown), Tin Man (Paul Mannix) and Cowardly Lion (Neil Hellard)) soon had the audience transported into this magical world of Oz. David was suitably floppy as Scarecrow and such a contrast to Paul who, as Tin Man, was more restricted in his physical acting. Neil was a wonderful cowardly Lion and his general timid outlook on everything was rewarded as the audience showed him special fondness and sympathy.

Anna Parker and Mel Ingle were the good witches from the North and South who appeared occasionally to support Dorothy on her journey to Oz. Mel certainly had the advantage here of being from the ’sarf’ and provided ideal comments and gestures whenever onstage. Jane Jones certainly delivered what was expected as Grimmer: The Wicked Witch of the West. Lots of menacing laughter brought out plenty of audience boos and hisses. The mobile phone attached to her broomstick was a great idea and the source of much amusement.

Ben Miles was true to his character name as Prince Smarmy! The constant preening and pouting were very funny and Ben’s characterisation was ‘spot on’ for this pantomime role. His search for a suitable princess was played in true panto style! Emily Smith was lovely as Princess Porcelain and together the pair worked well together in creating much amusement.

Ugg and Lee (together we are ug-ly) were played by Sally Hopkins and Clare Quinn. This all-purpose comedy duo appeared at frequent intervals and always being the Panto fools! They were a definite audience favourite.

Mike Norman-Smith (The Great Oz), Xander Hall (Guardian of the Gate) and Will Parry (Munchking) filled cameo roles admirably and certainly added to the overall enjoyment.

Whilst those already mentioned enjoyed ‘the limelight’, it is important to recognise the energy and enthusiasm shown by the entire cast. Maggi Chick, Chloe Hopkins, Ethan Mead, Will Parry, Amanda Roberts, Richard Warner, Debbie Webb and Ailsa Weymes-McElderry all added to the overall enjoyment and I was aware that everyone was fully engaged throughout the pantomime.

A special mention to Willa Chick as Little Munchkin’ who delighted the audience and looked to be having such a good time onstage.

David Clifton and Duncan Hay (Lighting) together with David Reeves (Sound) are to be credited for their efforts. There were no negative issues or distractions to mention here with audience focus firmly on the performers at all times.

Ingrid Holtz is to be congratulated as Stage Manager for her backstage organisation. Everything appeared to be highly organised, run smoothly and with seamless precision.

Maggi Chick managed Costumes and sourced an excellent collection that were of a high standard and again added to the overall success of the show. Aunt Em’s various dresses and the striped stockings

Stella Scotchings-Smith managed Props which were all of a good quality and handled well by those onstage.

I’m not sure who to credit regarding Makeup but this was most colourful with that for the Cowardly Lion being quite excellent.

Congratulations to everyone at Parish Players and thank you for a lovely evening’s entertainment. Those audience members in tonight’s ‘full house’ certainly enjoyed themselves and most definitely got into the pantomime spirit.

I look forward to my next visit and enjoying future productions!

Des Wilby

Regional Representative

NODA London District 5