Knockbreda Pantomime – 6th and 7th February 2015
After Christmas can be a bit of an anti-climax, with dark January mornings pulling us down. This year, our January was packed full of rehearsals of such classics as ‘Reach for the Stars’ and ‘Dancing Queen’! Why? Because we were rehearsing for the Knockbreda Parish Pantomime, ‘Sleeping Beauty’, written, produced and directed by the wonderful Ruth Thompson.
This was an entirely home-grown production, with cast drawn from our congregation. Our wonderful Sexton, Robert McAvoy played the Pantomime Dame, ‘Nanny O’Knock’ with great aplomb. We were all amazed by his fantastic singing voice and acting ability. His renditions of Elvis songs kept us well amused! Robert’s energy and enthusiasm kept us all going through rehearsals and his final performances were really special.
The principal parts of Sleeping Beauty and her Prince Charming were played superbly by Aimee Maguire and Peter Elliot. Aimee was spellbinding as Beauty. Her fine singing voice and wonderful acting skills were admired by all who came. Prince Charming – well that’s a matter of opinion – was just that: full of easy charm and wit. Anyone who wants to join our Sunday School will be taught by these shining stars! Come along!
Our chorus was full of energy and talent and encompassed a wide range of ages. This was one of the great advantages of being involved – we got to know so many different folk from within the congregation. It truly was a unifying experience which brought us together.
Oliver Fleming and Nina Monson surely deserve a special mention – the youngest members of our cast, they brought such a willingness to be the best that they could be. Their humour and brightness were invaluable.
None of it would have been possible without the incredible direction and inspirational leadership of both Ruth and Andrew Thompson. They challenged and encouraged us all to make it a professional production, which we could be proud of. Our hope and prayer is that this warm and positive experience will bring many into closer contact with our Parish, adding real impetus to kick off our year of Mission. We did it all for the glory of God and He enabled us to make it work. We will remember it for years to come.
By Claire Press
