Wilmslow Guild Players’ highly popular Christmas pantomime The Wizard of Oz was performed from the 16th - 19th December to sell out audiences.
“We’ve had massive demand for tickets this year”, said Ticket Secretary Bill Beton. “We were sold out three weeks before the opening night. Our little theatre only holds around 80. We like this because it keeps the atmosphere close and intimate. The kids can reach out and touch the cast as they go by (and they do!).”
The pantomime was directed by long-standing member but first-time director Lee Tipton. “I always wanted a go at directing,” he said afterwards. “I mean, how hard could it be? I'd been in front of the director loads of times and I knew what I was doing - he didn't have to do very much, not with me anyway?! Just cast it right and off you go. Or so I thought!”
“But it taught me a great deal, not only about the directing, but also about people. You have to get the best out of everyone you work with and learn through your mistakes - like most things in life. I did enjoy it and the sell out nights speak for themselves.”
“The most satisfying part was seeing the whole thing come together and the audience seeing what was in your head all along. Would I do it again? Well, yes, if they'd let me!”
Wilmslow Guild Players’ next production is “Take Away the Lady” – A deadly puzzler by Jimmie Chinn (24th - 27th March).
For further information about Wilmslow Guild Players, visit their website or email [email protected].
Pictured are the cast (Bex Stockton, Sophie Diss, Julia Barnes, Peter Cotton and Geoff Brocklehurst) with Ursula, a member of the audience who came dressed for the occasion.
