Reviews

Reviews by year...
2006 | 2007

2007

Dick Whittington , Bridlington: 3B's Entertainment Centre

18 December 2007 to 06 January 2008

The audience loved it

The Stage - 18 December 2007

The cast in Bridlington worked their socks off… Read more...

Jack and the Beanstalk , Weston-super-Mare: The Playhouse

17 December 2007 to 13 January 2008

Another high quality pantomime

The Stage - 20 December 2007

Bruce Jones uses all his experience to make his Fleshcreep as horrible a baddie as they come..… Read more...

Panto's all right, Jack

This is Weston-super-Mare - 21 December 2007

...the children in the packed High Street theatre were certainly not disappointed with the dazzling sets, cute songs and cheesy humour of the Paul Holman Associates production… Read more...

Pantomime Jack full of charm

Weston & Somerset Mercury - 21 December 2007

...modern music, colourful scenery and costumes and an energetic cast… Read more...

Panto perfection at The Playhouse

Bridgwater Mercury - 23 December 2007

A packed Playhouse Theatre audience in Weston was treated to pantomime perfection..… Read more...

Aladdin, Catford: Broadway Theatre

15 December 2007 to 06 January 2008

Sparkly and eye-catching

The Stage - 17 December 2007

The ex-detective (Mark Wingett) makes an ideal rogue and with some powerful raving and ranting, abetted by wicked charm, leads the cast through the story… Read more...

Genie-us of Aladdin

News Shopper - 02 January 2008

Popular panto Aladdin may be set in Peking, but the Broadway Theatre’s production puts a twist on it which is, as one character points out, is “so Catford”… Read more...

Sleeping Beauty , Porthcawl: Grand Pavilion

15 December 2007 to 06 January 2008

Utterly utterly brilliant

The Stage - 31 December 2007

...this staging, directed and choreographed by David Samual, has plenty to recommend it… Read more...

Cinderella, Redhill: Harlequin Theatre

15 December 2007 to 06 January 2008

A lovely Christmassy atmosphere

The Stage - 19 December 2007

There are several really strong voices in this production, all given their chance to shine… Read more...

Bucketloads of traditional family fun

Surrey Mirror - 20 December 2007

Bucketloads of traditional family fun..… Read more...

Smart Cinders has a ball

Redhill and Reigate Life - 19 December 2007

...had the children who went to see it roaring in the aisles… Read more...

That 'feel good' factor

Encore Magazine - 01 February 2008

..here was a pantomime in the best tradition, expertly produced by PAUL HOLMAN ASSOCIATES and beautifully directed by the highly experienced Peter Dayson… Read more...

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs , Broxbourne: Civic Hall

13 December 2007 to 05 January 2008

There's lots of fun and laughter

The Stage - 24 December 2007

…the kids and I loved Snow White at Broxbourne… Read more...

A winning combination

Encore Magazine - 01 February 2008

Top notch panto returned once again to Broxbourne.… Read more...

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Newark: Palace Theatre

12 December 2007 to 06 January 2008

A real treat

The Stage - 17 December 2007

Kim Hartman as Queen Helga must rank as one of the best villains around this Christmas. Dressed in magnificent robes that look like something from the Russian imperial court, she baits the audience with a very impish kind of glee. They love to hate her, especially the “snivelling little brats” she threatens with double maths… Read more...

Panto is full of life and energy

Newark Advertiser - 21 December 2007

This year’s pantomime at the Palace Theatre, Newark, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs is fantastic… Read more...

Snow White - pure entertainment

Encore Magazine - 03 March 2008

..when one is aware that the show is produced by Paul Holman, a feeling of comfort is in order… Read more...

Cinderella, Telford: Oakengates Theatre @ The Place

12 December 2007 to 06 January 2008

A delightful panto

The Stage - 20 December 2007

Here is a delightful panto which stays strictly on Cinderella’s traditional path… Read more...

A hit with the youngsters

Shropshire Star - 15 December 2007

Screams of delight from the hundreds of children at the start of this year’s Telford’s Christmas pantomime run were a sure sign of its popularity… Read more...

Peter Pan, Aylesbury: Civic Centre

08 December 2007 to 30 December 2007

There is much to like here

The Stage - 13 December 2007

…impressive wire flights from both Peter (Marcus Ashley) and Laura Johnson’s Wendy… Read more...

A fine finale

Encore Magazine - 01 February 2008

...the kids in the audience...are actually sorry to see Paul Daniels meet his watery end in the penultimate scene… Read more...

Christmas panto is just magical

Buck Herald - 12 December 2007

(Marcus Ashley and Laura Johnson) harmonised with ease and made all the flight scenes magical… Read more...

Jack and the Beanstalk, Derby: Assembly Rooms

07 December 2007 to 06 January 2008

A hard-working show that gives its all

The Stage - 13 December 2007

Jeffrey Holland is a breath of fresh air as Dame Trott, loving every minute of it… Read more...

Seasoned performers ensure pantomime is a gigantic hit

Derby Evening Telegraph - 11 December 2007

With its sprinkling of stars, seasoned stage performers - and not to mention a handful of magic beans - Jack and the Beanstalk adds up to a good night of family fun… Read more...

Stars shine in Derby's family panto

Derby Evening Telegraph - QT - 20 December 2007

Antonio Fargas is about the coolest, hippest ‘baddie’ there ever was… Read more...

Roll up for the best pantomime Derby has seen for years

Derby Evening Telegraph - 21 December 2007

Wonderfully exciting and bags of fun, roll up for the best pantomime Derby has seen for years… Read more...

A traditional panto treat - oh yes it is!

Derby Trader - 13 December 2007

The childrens’ excitement rubbed off on everyone else, not that the adults needed much encouragement… Read more...

Beauty and the Beast , Redditch: Palace Theatre

07 December 2007 to 06 January 2008

A very entertaining and enjoyable family show

The Stage - 28 December 2007

..first rate.… Read more...

Panto is a real beauty and very funny too

Redditch Standard - 14 December 2007

When Palace Theatre bosses commissioned independent theatre producers Paul Holman Associates to create family pantomimes for everyone to enjoy, they came up with a blinder… Read more...

Cinderella, Rickmansworth: Watersmeet

07 December 2007 to 31 December 2007

Superb show

The Stage - 21 December 2007

From the moment former Bad Girls actress Victoria Bush steps on stage as a brash, mouthy Fairy Godmother, the audience knows it’s in for a treat… Read more...

Thoroughly good fun

Watford Observer - 29 December 2007

...thoroughly good fun..… Read more...

A truly exceptional show

The Flea Magazine - 10 December 2007

You and yours simply MUST go to the ball to experience the best local production of Cinderella that Rickmansworth has ever seen… Read more...

Summer Spectacular, Bournemouth: The Pier Theatre

01 July 2007 to 15 September 2007

Summer Spectacular

The Stage - 01 August 2007

If you want an entertaining evening of laughter, song and dance, then make sure you see this classic Paul Holman Associates Summer Spectacular. Devised with care it is well dressed, good old fashioned variety. I took the whole family aged 10 to 78 years old, and we all came out happy. Topping the bill is the very funny Simmons and Simmons; his brother retired, Keith has joined forces with son Ben who is the well dressed, sensible straight man to dad’s, much loved, super-silly, brilliantly timed antics. Kilmarnock’s stand-up comedian, Johnny Mac is hilarious with comic characters from old eccentric lady to silly schoolboy and with self-penned scripts has great rapport with his audience; he also joins Simmons and Simmons in deftly-daft sketches, the audience helpless with laughter. Multi-instrumentalist, Rachel King shows awesome versatility on tenor saxophone, flute and violin alto. Noticeably all performers were able singers but young, energetic song and dance man Marcus Ash has the evenings golden voice; well matched by pretty song-bird Victoria McKenzie. Talented local dancers Andrew Harding and Emily Evans light up the stage, adding harmony to some great company numbers showcasing the talents of MD Simon Walters. Chris Covington’s fluorescent Star Puppets are a delightful addition - as are the sweetest of Stage Door school students. My family’s favourite moments were the side splitting family comedy and well choreographed contrasting medleys, the glitzy Glamorous Nights and up tempo, Thriller Night. The only let down was the weather but who cares we were cosy, comfy and in great company.

The audience loved it

The Stage

18 December 2007

The cast in Bridlington worked their socks off.

..in Neil Wheatley they have an admittedly risqué, but winsome and genuinely funny Idle Jack.

Sarah Accomondo gave the stand-out performance as Alice Fitzwarren.

Jonathan Eio as the eponymous hero strolled through his role with some aplomb.

A winning script...

Jason Francis twinkled away as Wheatley’s comic sidekick, performing the straight man role with some considerable skill.

...a hard-working and attractively presented cast.

The audience loved it.

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Another high quality pantomime

The Stage

20 December 2007

Bruce Jones uses all his experience to make his Fleshcreep as horrible a baddie as they come...

…another high quality Paul Holman Associates pantomime.

Tom Solomon teams attractively with Joanna Kirkland, who is in equally good voice as Princess Amelia

...there are no less than four specialist comedians to hand.

Lee Carroll, James Horne and Peter Jamieson stick effectively to traditional pantomime routines...

…the diminutive Sue Hodge gives a whole new ecological spin to the role of Fairy Organic, aka Katy Cucumber.

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Panto's all right, Jack

This is Weston-super-Mare

21 December 2007

...the children in the packed High Street theatre were certainly not disappointed with the dazzling sets, cute songs and cheesy humour of the Paul Holman Associates production.

...excited youngsters leaping out of their seats and boo-ing on the tops of their voices whenever the show’s star, former Coronation Street actor Bruce Jones shouted and rasped his lines as baddie Fleshcreep.

Show stealers were pint-size former ‘Allo ‘Allo star Sue Hodge as Fairy Organic, West Country comedian Lee Carroll as Simple Simon and the traditional dame, effortlessly played by panto veteran James Horne.

Tom Soloman and Joanna Kirkland gave awe-inspiring performances as lead characters Jack and Princess Amelia.

The songs were gutsy and spell-binding...

The dancers gave brilliant performances...in their gorgeous costumes.

The sets and special effects were magical...

...the giant and cow costumes were excellent...

The usual panto gags including tell me if a ghost comes up behind me, the dame’s double entendres and slap-stick moments were all there plus a few extra delights...

...the dame’s striptease scene...being the most memorable.

Altogether a Christmas crowd pleaser and sure to draw audiences well after the turkey has been curried and casseroled.

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Pantomime Jack full of charm

Weston & Somerset Mercury

21 December 2007

...modern music, colourful scenery and costumes and an energetic cast.

As villain Fleshcreep, Bruce had the audience booing and hissing fiercely with his menacing threats – the house nearly came down when he promised to take Daisy the cow to slaughter.

Fairy Organic, played by Sue Hodge, was a bubbly performer and made the audience laugh with her Catherine Tate inspired ‘bothered’ tantrum.

Both (Tom Soloman and Joanna Kirkland) played their parts admirably, their singing voices matching their high energy acting skills.

Dame Trott, played by James Horne, delivered a clever striptease, removing layers of colourful clothing before appearing fully clothed again in the blink of an eye.

Simple Simon was a natural performer who had the crowd singing in the lead up to the finale.

The 10th Playhouse production...once again delivered commendable performances, adding extra charm to the land of make-believe.

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Panto perfection at The Playhouse

Bridgwater Mercury

23 December 2007

A packed Playhouse Theatre audience in Weston was treated to pantomime perfection...

Star-studied production, Jack and the Beanstalk, saw the re-telling of the traditional tale with the inclusion of modern songs and jokes to keep the audience on their toes.

Lead couple Jack and Princess Amelia thrilled the crowds with renditions of Take That’s Rule the World and Leona Lewis’s A Moment Like This.

...terrifically over the top Fleshcreep was suitably portrayed by talented Bruce Jones...

...lively Sue Hodge kept the children entertained.

Dame Trott and Simple Simon kept the plot flowing with non-stop one liners.

The performance was backed by grand scenery and glittering costumes, proving more than enough to keep children entertained for the two-hour duration.

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Sparkly and eye-catching

The Stage

17 December 2007

The ex-detective (Mark Wingett) makes an ideal rogue and with some powerful raving and ranting, abetted by wicked charm, leads the cast through the story.

A man worthy of his boos. (Mark Wingett)

On the other side of the audience affection is the youthful looking Ian Jones.

He’s (Ian Jones) playing the idiotic knock-about Wishee Washee and performs non-stop as if believing in the script.

He (Ian Jones) works ceaselessly to win over the kids and is clearly at ease on stage.

Applause, too, for John Brenner. A vastly experienced Dame he presents a fine Widow Twanky and is helped throughout by some of the daftest hats to decorate panto since that 1813 opening in Covent Garden.

One of the stronger points of this particular show are the costumes in general. They are sparkly and eye-catching across the cast, including juvenile and adult dance teams.

..the sets can take a bow..

Chris Park is a handsome hero as Aladdin.

Gareth Davis as the Emperor of China has the strongest voice.

Nicole Davis enjoys herself as a pert and saucy Cockney genie.

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Genie-us of Aladdin

News Shopper

02 January 2008

Popular panto Aladdin may be set in Peking, but the Broadway Theatre’s production puts a twist on it which is, as one character points out, is “so Catford”.

He (Mark Wingett) is a revelation. He seems to relish the role of the show’s dastardly villain.

Eyes and teeth gleaming with malevolence, he (Mark Wingett) booms out his lines and draws out every last boo and hiss from the excitable crowd.

Drawing plenty of screams was panto hunk Aladdin, played by Chris Park

Best of all, for me, was John Brenner as Widow Twankey, he was an immediate hit with the audience.

Aladdin is a genie-us panto kids and adults will love.

Go see it.

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Utterly utterly brilliant

The Stage

31 December 2007

...this staging, directed and choreographed by David Samual, has plenty to recommend it.

The comedy and age-old routines are expertly handled by Timmy Mallett as Timmy Trouble and Peter Thorne as Nurse Tilly Lint.

The kitchen and classroom scenes prove surefire

Monster Mallett’s community singalong of Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini is “utterly utterly brilliant”, producing a deafening response from the youthful audience.

The romantic pairing of Adam Brackenborough and Beth Humphreys as the Prince and Princess is a happy one. They are well matched and convincing, combining effectively in song.

The forces of good and evil are finely counterbalanced – Carys Gray is a delightful ever-smiling Lilac Fairy, opposed by Nikki Kelly as a vampish Carabosse.

Gareth McLeod provides an extrovert King Crumble.

The Colin Putz Dancers are outstanding, showing real style and class.

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A lovely Christmassy atmosphere

The Stage

19 December 2007

There are several really strong voices in this production, all given their chance to shine.

Special mention for Jonathan Parkin as Prince Charming and Emma Hatton, such a petite Fairy Godmother, but such a powerful voice.

Kirsten O’Brien brings her bubbly personality to the role of Cinderella and does the most amazing quick change I’ve (n)ever seen.

Drew Cameron as Buttons builds a wonderful rapport with the audience with impression after impression..

Bruce Montague plays Baron Hardup at his most affable.

..as Dandini, Christopher Bartlett, in his first pantomime, looks as if he’s been doing it for years.

It’s Mark Two and Jamie Steen’s first coupling as the Ugly Sisters, but it won’t be their last – they work brilliantly together and their costumes, their own designs, are awesome.

The best thing about this production is everything – the sound levels are right, there is imaginative use of sound and music effects and the band plays well.

The show has a lovely, Christmassy atmosphere – and real ponies!

Director Peter Dayson must be feeling quite satisfied, and deservedly so.

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Bucketloads of traditional family fun

Surrey Mirror

20 December 2007

Bucketloads of traditional family fun...

A well-known story with a happy ending...

...songs you can sing along to...

...costumes you can gaze in awe at...

...corny jokes and up-to-date one liners..

...villians you can boo and hiss at...

...a beautiful leading lady and a dashing prince...

...enough surprises along the way to keep you pinned to your seat.

...all of this and more.

From the opening rendition of Let it Shine, the show packed a punch which had the audience hanging on to every word

Multi-talented Kirsten O’Brien made a really believable and natural Cinderella and her singing and dancing captivated the audience from her first appearance.

Drew Cameron was perfectly cast as Buttons and his vast range of impersonations from Del Boy to Brucie were topical and spot on.

Stealing the show when it comes to outrageous costumes, not to mention stupendous footwear, death-defying heels and some very noisy underwear, were of course the ugly sisters.Rita and Wanda

Just when you thought, “They can’t top that”, out they would come – resplendent as a Christmas cracker or a tree complete with flashing lights.

...the producers can congratulate themselves on a job very well done

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Smart Cinders has a ball

Redhill and Reigate Life

19 December 2007

...had the children who went to see it roaring in the aisles.

It featured grotesque Ugly Sisters, a beautiful heroine, a dashing prince, ponies, water pistols and ballet dancers.

The children loved ducking the streams of water aimed at the audience and screaming the time-honoured taunts of “Oh no, it isn’t” at the badies.

For the adults, there were some topical jokes about disappearing canoeists and naming teddy bears and to the older children’s delight the fairy tale was peppered with pop songs by Take That, Mika and Avril Lavigne.

...polished performances by Kirsten O’Brien and Bruce Montague..

...George Gold’s white Shetland ponies were tethered to Cinderella’s dazzling white coach.

..one of the funniest moments was when Ugly Sister Rita’s wig fell off and Wanda said “Oh no, it’s a man”..

The costumes alone attracted attention, with the two sisters appearing in each scene in dresses more gaudily monstrous than the last

A happy ending – and a happy audience.

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That 'feel good' factor

Encore Magazine

01 February 2008

..here was a pantomime in the best tradition, expertly produced by PAUL HOLMAN ASSOCIATES and beautifully directed by the highly experienced Peter Dayson.

Leading the Company was Kirsten O’Brien...a pretty girl, fresh from BBC Children’s television and one who really can act, sing and dance to the very highest standard and who had the audience, young and old, in the palm of her hand from the off.

Great praise for Johnathan Parkin, for not only did he look the part but spoke with an eloquence much in keeping with his royal personage. He, too, possessed a quality voice and sang with much style.

Buttons (Drew Cameron) was a delight with his silly patter and a string of excellent impressions

The Fairy Godmother (Emma Hatton) almost stopped the show with some great vocals.

..congratulations to Mark Two and Jamie Steen as the Ugly Sisters, surely one of the best partnerships in the business

..an array of costumes that were simply brilliant – literally so in more than one occasion when they lit up with a myriad of twinkling fairy lights.

If a pantomime can be judged by the feel-good factor at curtain down, then this particular production must surely be a smash hit

..satisfied smiles lit up the foyer as the happy patrons wended their way home

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There's lots of fun and laughter

The Stage

24 December 2007

…the kids and I loved Snow White at Broxbourne.

There’s lots of fun and laughter…

Again, it’s a terrific duo in the pit who contribute so much – musical director Sean Jeffrey and Tom Anderson on percussion back the vocals sensitively or exuberantly as appropriate and provide multifarious noised to speed the plot.

One expects Denise Nolan to know what to do with a song (she does) and she is outstandingly good as Queen Grizelda

Peter John is my idea of a Dame – Dolly Dumpling is a whacky, knowing, witty creation in the best possible taste. Flamboyant costumes, a complete command of the audience and a wonderful mobile face make for a hugely enjoyable theatrical performance.

Jez Edwards is a bouncy, energetic warm mate for the kids. His dealing with the kids on stage was masterly.

Chris Rankin a nicely gnarled Percy..

Hannah Spicer a lovely Ms White..

Amy Rawlings a super fairy..

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A winning combination

Encore Magazine

01 February 2008

Top notch panto returned once again to Broxbourne..

..Paul Holman’s charming and jolly family show.

Denise Nolan as the Wicked Queen – a dominating character that really got the kids booing.

..her (Denise Nolan) big musical number sung with verve.

..commanding comic presence (Peter John)

A vast wardrobe of outfits (Peter John)

..personable Jez Edwards (was) a happy Muddles.

Could there be a more delightful Snow White than Hannah Spicer?

Full of smiling charm and with a splendid singing voice (Hannah Spicer)

..undoubtedly a future star of musical theatre (Hannah Spicer)

With Ashley Emerson as the handsome Prince, they made an attractive pair.

The Seven Dwarfs were welcomed at each performance.

The children playing them (Seven Dwarfs) moved and gestured perfectly.

A strong character performance came from Chris Rankin as the Queen’s Henchman in Quasimodo style.

The show was complete with fine sets and costumes, the whole a winning combination.


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A real treat

The Stage

17 December 2007

Kim Hartman as Queen Helga must rank as one of the best villains around this Christmas. Dressed in magnificent robes that look like something from the Russian imperial court, she baits the audience with a very impish kind of glee. They love to hate her, especially the “snivelling little brats” she threatens with double maths.

The show is full of surprises.

Herman, the scowling henchman (Alex Poulter), proves a skilful unicyclist and fire juggler, and the Woodland Fairy (Victoria McManus) twines herself in scarlet silk to perform a breathtaking acrobatic bungee act.

Shimmying dancers do a fairy ballet and it all gets very thrilling in the dungeons, with flaming torches and thundering music from Carmina Burana.

Andrew Lynford, a seasoned panto performer and director, holds it all together as Muddles and has an easy rapport with Steve Barclay’s rough old Dame Dolly Dumpling.

Anguished warning cries from the audience the moment the apple comes out of the basket are always a litmus test of how well the story has been told, and Richard Woodman as Prince Richard and Vicki Davids as Snow White tell it clearly and engagingly from Ian Billings’ excellent script.

Newark is getting a real treat this year.

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Panto is full of life and energy

Newark Advertiser

21 December 2007

This year’s pantomime at the Palace Theatre, Newark, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs is fantastic.

..slick upbeat and polished

It has everything a pantomime should have – lots of singing and dancing, colourful costumes, sensational sets, a lively dame, plenty of slapstick and old jokes, creative choreography, fabulous music and loads of audience participation.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs has all this and more.

Kim Hartman is excellent as Queen Helga

Dressed in black, red and gold, she plays her part with relish, being evil but in a pleasant kind of fashion so she does not scare the children too much

She has a lovely cackle and a great singing voice for the number, Get the Party Started.

Vicki Davids makes a wonderful Snow White and has a beautiful singing voice, especially in Truly Scrumptious.

She is well matched with Richard Woodman as Prince Richard of Romancia. Not only is he handsome he can also sing and dance too and excels in the numbers Shine and Rule the World.

Steve Barclay is hilarious as Dame Dolly Dumpling and wears a multitude of colourful costumes while churning out all the gags. He also plays a mean ukulele.

Andrew Lynford is the life and soul of the pantomime, getting all the children in the audience to shout out every time he comes on. He gets to sing a great version of You’re the One that I Want.

Alex Poulter as Herman, the Queen’s Henchman, almost steals the show. He is extremely comical and has the audience eating out the palm of his hand.

He can also unicycle, juggle with fire and break dance – is there nothing this man cannot do?

Victoria McManus looks the part as The Woodland Fairy and does a wonderful aerial routine which will have you gasping for breath

Miles Anthony has a booming voice and looks very eerie as the Spirit of the Mirror.

There’s a funny rendition of Twelve Days of Christmas and I got extremely wet during the number.

The dancers are extremely energetic and put all their enthusiasm into the routines.

A great show and I hope they come back next year.

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Snow White - pure entertainment

Encore Magazine

03 March 2008

..when one is aware that the show is produced by Paul Holman, a feeling of comfort is in order.

One knows then, that the show will be good, the costumes and sets well displayed and the story in traditional mode.

The attractive Ms Hartman plays the Wicked Queen with wholesome fire and brimstone, never over-acting yet doing enought to put fear into the hearts of those attending.

It was Alex Poulter who stole the show. His interpretation of the evil, grovelling servant under the control of his manipulating Mistress, was superb and later in the show he proved, also, to be an expert in juggling with flaming clubs.

Show director Andrew Lynford took the role of Muddles in his stride..

Steve Barclay as Dame Dolly Dumpling looked and sounded perfect in the part – a chubby, cheerful charmer with a variety of crazy costumes.

Vicki Davids and Richard Woodman shared the romantic lead and each sang beautifully, both in solo and duet..

Victoria McManus doubled, both as fine Woodland Fairy and as a brilliant circus aerialist on the silks.

A pantomime presented as all pantomimes should with enchanting scenes, evil moments, special-effects...

...finishing with the happiest of endings, sending everyone home with cheery smiles and happy memories in the knowledge that, once again, good has conquered over evil.

The most successful pantomime ever staged at Newark

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A delightful panto

The Stage

20 December 2007

Here is a delightful panto which stays strictly on Cinderella’s traditional path.

The story is told well with skilful spacing allowing the comedy sketches and the musical numbers plenty of room to breathe.

The pleasing scenes build to a transformation sequence pretty enough to make any little girl’s heart yearn for a fairy godmother to provide the dress, the coach and the handsome prince we find here.

Performing a 10am show is not the easiest of things, but this talented company sang and danced their hearts out as though this was a glitzy midnight charity gala.

Lots of things struck an immediate chord with the children from Buttons to the imperious Ugly Sisters who had the right dimension from the word go.

But it was really Buttons who deserves the acting laurels.

Tony Howes, whose style surely takes us back to Joey Grimaldi or back even further to Shakespeare’s Will Kempe, has always been one of the best drolls in the business and he served up dozens of traditional gags which set the children roaring with laughter.

When Cinders sang with her prince, these charming young people made sweet sounds and music truly became the food of love.

The magic whipped up through good performances needed to work at Oakengates, since this was a panto without megabucks behind it, and believe me, it did.

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A hit with the youngsters

Shropshire Star

15 December 2007

Screams of delight from the hundreds of children at the start of this year’s Telford’s Christmas pantomime run were a sure sign of its popularity.

...the shouts of joy grew louder as the performance went on.

The production offers everything one would expect from a traditional panto - dames, an unlucky-in-love funnyman, puns galore, singing, dancing and a happy ending.

But the tradition works and the audience loved it.

Tony Howes, who plays Buttons, admits he plays it for the kids, but there is plenty to keep the adults entertained.

Baron Hardup, played by former The Bill star Tony Scannell, has to be seen to be believed, while the Ugly Sisters of Roger Darrock and Stephen Howe keep the laughs coming thick and fast.
Former Eternal star Kelle Bryan is given plenty of opportunity to demonstrate her singing ability...

A special mention must also go to the excellent Joshua Martin, who put in an almost too-good-for-pantomime performance as Dandini.

However, the show stealer was undoubtedly Buttons.

Terrible puns and lame one-liners were lapped up by children and adults alike, leaving his name as the one on everyone’s lips as they left.


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There is much to like here

The Stage

13 December 2007

…impressive wire flights from both Peter (Marcus Ashley) and Laura Johnson’s Wendy.

(Laura Johnson) enhances the entire show with her impressive vocals

...pirate gang the Acroloons display their impressive acrobatic skills.

…there is much to like here..





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A fine finale

Encore Magazine

01 February 2008

...the kids in the audience...are actually sorry to see Paul Daniels meet his watery end in the penultimate scene.

..the headlining couple add sparkle to their respective roles.

Marcus Ashley gives a strong performance both in acting ability and vocal prowess.

His (Marcus Ashley) duets with Laura Johnson are a delight to the ear.

Terry Gleed (Smee) adds his own brand of comedy to the plot.

Gymnastic stars – THE ACROLOONS – give the show a visual lift with their comedy tumbling

..a production that...provides good Christmas entertainment for all the family.

..the sets and costumes, particularly in the finale scene, are excellent.

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Christmas panto is just magical

Buck Herald

12 December 2007

(Marcus Ashley and Laura Johnson) harmonised with ease and made all the flight scenes magical.

..amazing spectacles...greeted with amazement and laughter from the audience.

Local children played their parts well and looked to be having a great time!

...leaving children and parents thoroughly satisfied and feeling decidedly festive.

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A hard-working show that gives its all

The Stage

13 December 2007

Jeffrey Holland is a breath of fresh air as Dame Trott, loving every minute of it.

…howlingly funny…

…the audience couldn’t get enough

...truthful and engaging performances

…a hard-working show that gives its all.

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Seasoned performers ensure pantomime is a gigantic hit

Derby Evening Telegraph

11 December 2007

With its sprinkling of stars, seasoned stage performers - and not to mention a handful of magic beans - Jack and the Beanstalk adds up to a good night of family fun.

The Assembly Rooms pantomime established its cast's singing credentials straight away with a rousing rendition of I Need a Hero from Princess Amelia (Lisa Scott-Lee) and Jack Trott (Johnny Shentall).

Johnny Shentall's voice carried well, right to the back of the venue. He made a fine, strapping hero.

Jeffrey Holland as Dame Trott was a natural pantomime dame, warm and comical.

Judy Buxton played Fairy Organic with an expert touch.

Father and son comedy duo Simmons and Simmons made a welcome return to the Derby stage with their light and easy rapport.

Antonio Fargas was a cool customer as Fleshcreep, the Giant's evil henchman. Gravel-voiced and slick, he seemed to relish his role as villain of the piece and proved himself to be a strong all-round performer with his rendition of a bluesy/jazzy number in the second half of the show.

There was the usual sprinkling of topical humour.

There were plenty of jokes for the adults as well as the kids.

Sing-along pop tunes kept the audience in good spirits.

Daisy the pantomime cow, who was surprisingly nimble on her hooves, is guaranteed to melt audience members’ hearts with her enormous eyes.

..a dedicated cast and a lively script ensured it was another sparkling show for Derby.

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Stars shine in Derby's family panto

Derby Evening Telegraph - QT

20 December 2007

Antonio Fargas is about the coolest, hippest ‘baddie’ there ever was.

Lisa Scott-Lee has a lovely, big voice for such a little lady.

Jeffrey Holland lights up the stage as Dame Trott.

Johnny Shentall showed what a superb singer as well as dancer he is as the panto’s ‘hero’. And the chemistry between him and the beautiful Amelia is about as real as it gets.

The performance is like the best selection box you can imagine.

There’s everyone’s favourite in there.

It is all absolutely wonderful.

The most spectacular costumes and scenery.

Plenty of slapstick humour and, for good measure, some great current affairs jokes.

...the best bit was the unexpected when King Prawn (the superb Keith Simmons) had a few 'hiccups' with his attempts to 'fly'.

I don't know whether it was perfectly rehearsed or a hilarious ad lib, but I have never in all my years of going to pantos heard an audience laugh so much.

This is a supremely slick show directed by someone who really knows what he’s doing - and he ought to, after 37 pantos. Believe me, it shows.



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Roll up for the best pantomime Derby has seen for years

Derby Evening Telegraph

21 December 2007

Wonderfully exciting and bags of fun, roll up for the best pantomime Derby has seen for years.

In a production that straddles between the farce of pantomime, old style variety and the sweet harmonies of musical theatre, this is a show that will appeal to everyone.

Paul Holman’s production ticks all the boxes.

Antonio Fargas tackles his evil Fleshcreep character in an almost De Niro-esque fashion. With whip in hand and flame in his eye he almost steals the show.

The most active giant I’ve ever seen. Watching the kids scream in terror whilst reaching out to touch it was a treat.

Lisa Scott-Lee and Johnny Shentall grace the stage with effortless performances underlined by harmonious vocals..

Jeffrey Holland’s dame is like a grandma gone potty.

I really loved watchin Keith (Simmons) work, a true master of his craft.

Simmons & Simmons' flying routine scene deserves its own show, the audience were in hysterics.

The magical atmosphere of the show was in part due to the cast of talented dancers filling the stage with energy and vibrance from the first routine to the last.

This is a must-see production for the whole family, one your children will not forget.

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A traditional panto treat - oh yes it is!

Derby Trader

13 December 2007

The childrens’ excitement rubbed off on everyone else, not that the adults needed much encouragement.

As the first character, Fairy Organic played by Judy Buxton, entered the stage, I thanked the panto gods that this would be a traditional production.

..a bit of fun for everyone to enjoy.

Although pantos are aimed mainly at children, there was plenty for the adults.

For once it was hard to decide who my favourite characters were.

Dame Trott, played by Jeffrey Holland, was a great entertainer as were King Prawn and Lord Chamberlain, played by Simmons and Simmons.

This production took full advantage of the singing talents of Lisa Scott-Lee, who can only be commended for doing so well despite being heavily pregnant. Her husband, Johnny Shentall, also played a good Jack.

Giant Blunderbore proved the most popular choice with the children.

This production gets 10 out of 10 for audience participation.

The wintry scene as we left the theatre was a nice touch.

Traditional panto fans won’t be disappointed.

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A very entertaining and enjoyable family show

The Stage

28 December 2007

..first rate..

Veteran Bernie Clifton leads the tale for the most part.

…the dazzling Simon Howe as Dame, Madame Fifi, appears in an alluring array of colourful and topical outfits.

Lively and clear performances are delivered by Suzanne David as Beauty and Gary Tushaw as Beast, and their strong voices carry the show forward nicely.

Robert Breslin’s Gaston is engaging, with his rakish smile and chauvinist chit chat

The show’s choreographer Helen Jeckells presents a very sexy Witch Hazel, casting her spells.

A host of dancers and children complete the line up to make this a very entertaining and enjoyable family show

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Panto is a real beauty and very funny too

Redditch Standard

14 December 2007

When Palace Theatre bosses commissioned independent theatre producers Paul Holman Associates to create family pantomimes for everyone to enjoy, they came up with a blinder.

This year’s production of Beauty and the Beast is, quite simply, a masterpiece of casting..

The star act is undoubtedly Bernie Clifton, who, with his comedy antics and trusty friend Oswald the Ostrich, is billed as getting audiences rolling in the aisles – and he certainly does.

He is at the centre of all the action and is an absolute hoot.

His ability to quietly work an audience of any age is that of a vintage act.

Jokes about up-to-date issues, as well as great singing and dancing routines, make this action-packed show an absolute must see...

Gary Tushaw is dashing as the Count and suitably aggressive but ultimately humble as his alter ego the Beast

..his love interest Beauty in the form of Suzanne David is energetic and bubbly – while both can sing extremely well.

Helen Jeckells (plays) lovably wicked Witch Hazel with her tongue-twisting rhyming prose.

Simon Howe as panto dame Madame Fifi doesn’t disappoint..

..all the main characters are strong..

The wonderful thing about a truly great panto is the ability to appeal to all age groups – with gags for all – and this one possesses just that.

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Superb show

The Stage

21 December 2007

From the moment former Bad Girls actress Victoria Bush steps on stage as a brash, mouthy Fairy Godmother, the audience knows it’s in for a treat.

The cast and crew work perfectly together to provide a textbook traditional panto that cannot fail to entrance its audience.

Ellie Boswell’s Cinders is delightful, with a strong vocal performance that is able to turn the up-to-date songs that comprise the show’s musical numbers into full theatrical showstoppers.

She is matched by Simon Bell’s Prince (who is truly Charming), providing the chemistry that drives the show forward at every stage.

The panto’s most recognisable face, children’s TV presenter Mark Speight, keeps the youngsters on side at every opportunity in his role as Buttons.

The stars, of course, are the Ugly Sisters, here named Trinny and Susannah. Philip Armstrong and Oliver Gray form a perfect double act, providing enough off-the-cuff and risqué humour to keep the parents amused without offending younger theatregoers.

…superb show…

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Thoroughly good fun

Watford Observer

29 December 2007

...thoroughly good fun...

...a job very well done.

For a relatively small production, the cast is really rather impressive..

Perhaps the evening’s highlight was the traditional audience participation, which unusually featured an impromptu art class by the CBBC SMart presenter.

The assembled children had to draw a likeness of Mark on stage starting with his ears and nose, which proved a hilarious exercise for all concerned.

It’s a typically anarchic performance, however, from the gloriously villainous ugly sisters that really steal the show; a pair truly worthy of the customary booing and hissing directed towards them from the enthusiastic audience.

Cinderella at Watersmeet is jolly good fun – well worth a visit for all the family.

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A truly exceptional show

The Flea Magazine

10 December 2007

You and yours simply MUST go to the ball to experience the best local production of Cinderella that Rickmansworth has ever seen.

...it takes true genius to bring together a spectacular and magical production featuring an array of famous faces in a Pantomime setting.

There were so many wonderful solos, great harmonies and eye catching dances you’d be forgiven for thinking you were watching a production on a west end stage and not your local pantomime.

No expense was spared with the scenery, props or costumes.

Prince Charming played by Simon Bell lived up to our expectations.

He was lovely to look at and he sounded good too!

His look was so cute that I’m sure every female in the audience wanted that glass slipper!!

Dandini played by Justin Giles had a great look and a fantastic voice, so good I had to check the roof was still attached to the theatre every time he sang – brilliant!!

So many comical moments – by several wonderful players

They (Ugly Sisters) never failed to impress us all with their wit and naughtiness so much that I want them to spend Xmas at my house...

It is really challenging to keep an audience of all ages thrilled from beginning to end and I must say that if you’ve managed to get yourself a ticket to this show, you won’t be disappointed.

The entertainment is non-stop.

You definitely take something away with you.

If I get another chance, I’ll be singing along with the cast again to the ever so popular current melodies.

...don’t be a pumpkin – get out the coach, don’t spare the horses and get yourself and the family over to the Watersmeet

...a truly exceptional show that will make this year’s Christmas a memory that you and yours will treasure and remember long after the festivities are over.

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