beaming smiles.he dancers, both juniors and seniors, brought life to the chorus scenes and a beautiful beanstalk ballet displayed the high level of our local dancing youth. Outstanding performance came from principal boy Helen Randall who portrayed aconfident hero Jack and possessed a fine voice She was complemented well by Rebecca Bennett who played Princess Melanie.Rebecca's professional experience came through with a superb solo song in the second half. It was a shame that we had to wait until then to discover her singing abilities.

The battle between good and evil was played convincingly by husband-and-wife team Rae and Colin Gilderthorp. Rae, who played last year's fairy, tackled her role with a different slant this year by adopting an endearing Devon accent for her Vegetable Fairy, complete with leek wand. Colin, as Fleshcreep, seemed slow to warm to his part but managed to receive plenty of boos before the evening was over.

The, evil team was boosted by a fabulous giant, played well by Fred Caygill, and the giant's wife, Blodwyn, was an unexpected addition delivered enthusiastically by Kerri Seamore.

Plenty of comedy was injected by Neil Booth with his rather husky-voiced Dame Trot, and he was ably assisted by Silly Billy, played by newcomer Dean Breyley. Unfortunately the material was slightly tired but the two worked their socks off to gain the laughs. Some polished comedy came from an obviously well-rehearsed duo, Spick and Span - Donna Marie Hughes and Kini Eagles. These won over the audience in their scenes, with Mike Williamson as the lovable King Satupon.

Additional chuckles were encouraged by a Welsh towncrier - Clarence Clanger--- played by Peter Hewlett and, of course, the essential pantomime cow Daisy, which kept Kayleigh Harding and Katie Shepherd on their toes tap dancing and waltzing.

Kathy Luxton