WC NOVEMBER 30
On Monday and Tuesday I went to Shanklin Theatre to see the First Act production of Alice in Wonderland. I love the First Act group, who comprise of adults with learning difficulties, and I have seen many of them gain so much confidence over the years. They clearly love appearing on stage and it has greatly improved their enjoyment of life and given them new skills. The principals appeared in both productions but the Monday and Tuesday groups provided support performers. As ever, I loved watching them perform and they are so inspirational. The Monday night audience were far better than the Tuesday night audience. Well done to all those on stage and to Carol and her helpers. There is never a trace of any sort of ego – the clients just enjoy themselves with admirable teamwork.
On Thursday we had a great evening at the Shorwell pantomime which drew capacity houses every night. They even sold seats for both the technical rehearsal and the dress rehearsal, such was the demand. Illness hit the shows which meant last minute changes had to be made, with one guy being forced to make his stage debut as the Fairy. He read from the book but did well. Sarah Scotcher was in her element as the last minute King Rat. True to form she more than made the most of it. It added to the fun of the show, which was almost three hours. The changes added to the length of the show but none of the audience worried. It added to the overall impact of the show. If I had still been running the theatre awards this one would have taken some beating.
I had an enjoyable Saturday night at the IW Radio Christmas Party at the Moocow, Cowes. Quite the oldest in the building – as you might expect!!