WIZARD of Oz author L Frank Baum’s little-known work, set in a Tolkien-like world, introduced us to several more interesting characters.
Director Rosina Brandham and producer Laurel Bowen combined to treat the audience to a colourful evening with inventive costumes and sets. Graham Pearson (as Baum) told the tale of Santa Claus, abandoned as a baby and raised as her own by Necile, well played by Sian Clarke. Santa (Alan Catt) left their immortals’ world to make toys for children, supported by runaways Barlo and Lem (confidently played by Lauren Halstead and Hannah Weeks).
There were fine performances by Joe Pickering, Eileen Maclachlan and Sean Abbott (as King Ak, his nagging Queen and Jack Frost) but the first-half scene-stealers were youngsters Rebecca Dymott and Rachael Cronn (Weekum and Mayrie).
John Dovey and Penny Cannon’s dance (King and Queen Awgwa) was another highlight and this feelgood show kept the audience thoroughly entertained.
The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus – Copythorne Amateur Theatrical Society.
Alan Jones
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