Bah Humbug! Winterbourne Musical Theatre
Winterbourne Community Centre December 2009
Director and Choreographer – Maggie Williams
Musical Director- Heather Wren
An original ‘Pantical’ based on ‘A Christmas Carol’, written by Maggie Williams, this was a new slant on an old favourite. With 72 characters plus the enchanting ‘Camden Clangers,’ a group of wonderful campanologists that accompanied some carols at the end of the show, this was a big production that demanded much commitment and dedication to bring it to the stage. The familiar story of Scrooge (Peter Gibson) was introduced by Dickens himself (an admirable portrayal by Mike Cousins) and seemed quite traditional until the arrival of his housekeeper, Mrs Dilber and maid Lillian, (hilarious performances with great comic timing by Annie Weathehead & JillC ope). These characters set the mood and though the original story was told, we had countless hysterical ‘additions’ throughout!
Act 2 opened in ‘BAR HUMBUG’, a drinking and Karaoke establishment frequented by all manner of deceased characters including Al Capone (Tony Worgan with a great rendition of Jailhouse Rock!). The majority of the musical numbers (and there were many!), were accompanied by a very talented and sympathetic pianist, Katie Robson, with a huge range of musical styles, from G&S to Rock and Roll. Wonderful costumes, imaginative use of stage and auditorium, superb energy and pace all made for an imaginative production that was really different.
Great fun!