Review 4

The Stage

"Nick Wilton’s Dame Trott is a comic delight, crowbarring in the innuendos

and keeping mums and dads chortling throughout."

By Matt Fancy

Chris Jarvis has become a fixture of the panto scene in Dorset and on the strength of Jack and the Beanstalk, he’ll be very welcome for many years to come.
His direction keeps the show springing along and his boundless energy and enthusiasm as Silly Billy ensure that the pace never drops when he’s onstage. Clearly a natural born entertainer, and very much at home at the Pavilion.

With a script littered with local references and sharp asides, this is very much a panto for the people of Bournemouth of all ages.

Debra Stephenson’s performance as Jack is a tour de force of energy, fun and, during one technical hiccup, inspired improvisation. The impressions that she’s known for come thick and fast to rapturous applause, especially a spot on Anne Robinson.

Brian Capron is a fiendishly devilish Fleshcreep, revelling in the boos and in a bizarre way - channelling Albert Finney - while the delightful Kate Weston is an adorable Fairy Bubbles.

Nick Wilton’s Dame Trott is a comic delight, crowbarring in the innuendos and keeping mums and dads chortling throughout.

Some elegant dancing, magnificent sets and a catchy score all add to the fun of a superb evening’s entertainment.