I HAVE to admit, that every year, I especially look forward to the pantomime at The Georgian Theatre Royal, in Richmond. The panto here is very different to the glitz and glamour in the bigger theatres. This small intimate space gives the most incredible environment for a panto. This year Rapunzel, written by Nick O’Conner, who also plays the dame Desiree Spud, has created one of the best panto scripts I’ve seen.
The story begins with Detective Febreeze (Nigel Fyfe), searching for Jimmy ‘Prince’ Charming (Marcus Jones) who has been on the run. Jimmy takes refuge in Desiree Spud’s vegetarian Cafe. We find out that Desiree Spud’s daughter, Rapunzel (Rebecca Huish) was taken from her as a baby. The search for her begins with the help of Detective Febreeze, it turns out the evil Mother Gothel (Paige Rochelle) has taken Rapunzel and has been keeping her in the tower. This is probably one of the most in depths stories for a pantomime as many just lightly follow the stories.
The entire, hardworking, cast work well together, though the highlight must be Nick O’Connor, he appears so at ease with great comic timing and the audience feels as if they’ve been friends for years. Nick takes advantage of the intimate size and chats to members of the audience at appropriate times. The young company of three teams are full of energy and enthusiasm, not only through their dancing, but becoming an integral part to the cast.
Traditionally at Richmond you’ll also find knitted items, this time vegetables, to help save the day as well as the opportunity to catch a Tunnock’s Teacake.
Rapunzel runs until 7th January at The Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond.
