Inverurie panto kicks-off festive run in style
Easier access to your trusted, local news. Subscribe to a digital package and support local news publishing.
This year's Inverurie Panto kicked-off in style over the weekend, as the magic of Peter Pan took over Inverurie Town Hall with a doric twist.
As well as the usual characters in Peter Pan, such as Peter himself, Captain Hook and Tinkerbell, there is a number of unique characters in this show.
These include, Cook's right-hand man Smee, Mrs Clarty, who is Captain Cook's cook and is infamous for her buttery making skills and a special parrot, Polly, the creation of the show's producer Keith Donaldson.
The story starts out in Aberdeen, when three children have just got back from the Codona's with their parents, before they are whisked away to Neverland and the adventures take place, culminating in the defeat of Captain Cook himself.
Throughout the show, there is contemporary music and local references, including mentioning JG Ross and Jim Reid Vehicle Sales.
The Inverurie Panto has a very special feel to it and Frantic Assembly, who are based in London and did the choreography for The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time, did a workshop with the performers prior to the shows.
The stagecaft also reflects the experience of the team as lighting designer, Lewis Todd, has just been on a national tour of Kinky Boots, whilst make-up and wig artist, Millie Begg, has been working in Drury Lane on 42nd Street this year.
The show has some new cast members this year, including Alex Brown as Smee, Mikey Innes as Captain Hook and Gavin McKay as Mrs Clarty.
However, the cast also includes the experienced Laura Burnett as Tinkerbell and Sophie Hamilton-Pike as Peter Pan, as well as a few others who have been in the show before including Rhona Johnston as Wendy.
They provided all the elements one would hope for in a quality panto with audience involvement, songs, slapstick, dance routines and terrible puns.
With all of the political uncertainty in the UK, Peter Pan gives audiences something to smile and laugh about and should not be missed.
Peter Pan will run until Christmas Eve at Inverurie Town Hall.
For tickets, visit inveruriepanto.com, or contact 01467 207000.