Wilmslow Guild Players' much loved Christmas pantomime this year is "The Dragon of Wantley" by master of pantomime Norman Robbins. It runs from 15th to 18th December at Wilmslow Guild, the adult education centre on Bourne Street.
The Dragon of Wantley has all the traditional elements: goodies and baddies, the dame, corny jokes and the principal boy and girl falling in love. The Mayor of Wantley wants the young Squire's estate so that he can cut down all the trees in the forest and build warehouses, wind-farms and second rate superstores. The fairy that lives under the forest is furious and brings in a dragon to eat all the villagers and their animals. The young Squire puts on his armour to kill the dragon and it all comes to a happy ending.
The pantomime is being directed by Geof Reed, a long standing member of the Guild Players and experienced director. "I chose this panto because it was away from the usual nursery rhymes and stories but still retains all the elements of pantomime," said Geof. "It is adapted from a Victorian pantomime which I feel adds to its attraction. Norman Robbins has kept in the traditional jokes and situations that audiences expect, but has brought in new jokes that give rise to cheers from the cast at rehearsals."
The Guild Players have produced six of Norman Robbins' pantomimes over the years, most recently Dick Whittington in 2007. "My favourite character is Jingo the Squire's valet," said Geof. "He has the comedy role and must be allowed to ad-lib... but as the director I have to control it."
The panto nearly had to be called off in the middle of November when two of the cast had to withdraw for personal reasons in the same week. The Guild Players embarked upon a publicity campaign in the papers and internet to try to find replacements. They were delighted to have new actresses within two days! Michele Eaton will play Madge Merry and Bex Stockton will play Squire Benjamin.
The biggest challenge in staging the panto has been to represent the dragon's cave in the last main scene of the panto. The audience will have to come along to see how it turns out!
Geof continued: "Pantomime is a unique form of British theatre with traditional elements and, if I may say so, is spoilt by some commercial companies allowing guest comedians to take over with their patter out of context with the story-line. Our regular audience know that we work hard to keep all the traditions and we expect all of them (regardless of age) to take part by cheering, booing and responding. Oh yes we do! If any adult thinks that they have to bring a child to enjoy it, they are missing the point. But bringing one makes it even better!"
The pantomime runs from 15th to 18th December at Wilmslow Guild on Bourne Street. Performances start at 7.15pm. Tickets cost £6 for adults and £4 for children and can be booked by email, calling 01625 520126 or via the Wilmslow Guild Players' web site.
Photo caption: The dragon threatens the villagers of Wantley.
