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The
origins of Sleeping Beauty are believed to go back to ancient Greece with
early versions being particularly gruesome. The story with which we are
now familiar is probably based on the adaptation by the Brother’s Grimm
with the first pantomime version being staged at London’s Covent Garden.
The
2006 Extravaganza production of Sleeping Beauty at Stockport Plaza gave
Vicki the opportunity to be reunited with two more Allo Allo co stars, Kim
Hartman and Robin Parkinson and was a fine example of traditional British
pantomime at its best. The success of the show was undoubtedly attributed
to the combination of tried and trusted panto elements, masterfully
crafted by the cast, including a wonderfully timed slapstick routine and a
delightful ballet scene so in keeping with the Sleeping Beauty image. With
so many Allo Allo cast members on board, it was hardly surprising there
were numerous references to the show throughout but ingenious script
writing ensured a perfect balance of the inclusion with hilarious results.
Add to this stunning costumes, optimum use of scenery and effects and the
maximum amount of usual audience participation and the stage is set for
the complete family entertainment.
As
expected Vicki and Kim Hartman were the perfect foils for each other as
The Lilac Fairy and Wicked Carabosse. In performances that positively
shone with a natural chemistry flowing between them, Carabosse proved
herself a mighty adversary but somehow you always got the feeling that
the Lilac Fairy would win through, the stage hers to command on every
entry. Also giving superb performances were Colin Roberts as Queen
Hermione and Tam Ryan as Jangles with Robin Parkinson as King Ferdinand,
Mary-Ann Cafferkey as Princess Aurora, Barrie Ryan-English as Prince
Florizel and Antony Law as the Lord Chamberlain. Joining them were the
Jean Geddes Dancers and Juveniles.
The
2005 Key Theatre, Chris Moreno production provided Vicki with her fourth
new pantomime characterisation in three successive years, that of the evil
Fairy Moan. In a totally committed portrayal, the stage was Fairy Moan’s
to command; obviously relishing every bit of reaction the audience
afforded her. No stranger to the role of “Baddie”, Vicki injected a
particularly potent amount of venom into this interpretation again
evolving a traditional character into her own creation and thus resulting
in her most intimidating, treacherous and reprehensible villain to date.
Her
counterpart as Good Fairy Nuff was played by former Allo Allo co star Sue
Hodge who certainly need to pull out all the stops to triumph over the
adversity caused by Fairy Moan.
Add
to this glamorous Debbie McGee as Queen Debbie, the magical genius of Paul
Daniels as King Paul, the zany comedy of Simon Bamford as Jack the Jester
an outrageous portrayal of Nurse Nora by Jason Webb, the enchanting
Abigail Aston as Princess Beauty, the handsome and dashing Prince Austin
of Powers played by Neil Moors and you have a complete family
entertainment for children of all ages.
Reviews
Peterborough Herald & Post
 Allo
Allo star Vicki Michelle played up to her role as the evil Fairy
Moan a treat, laughing evilly and ranting about her hate for
children.
ESP Magazine Ltd.
Vicki
Michelle was great as the bad fairy.
Spalding Today
A super
night of entertainment which sent you home with the feel good
factor. |
