Kickstarting the 2023 reviews season in style by being invited to drinks and review Blue Apple’s latest production Lashings of Ginger Beer a wonderful homage to the Five Famous characters created by Enid Blyton who are famously known to use that catchphrase.
Timmy, the dog (David Hunt) follows the group of four friends on their latest adventure to find the escaped prisoners. Julian’s (James Benfield) pompous, sexist attitude is sharply diluted by George’s (Ros Davies) feminist retort and forthright attitude. An empowering performance by Davies that certainly embodies the “tomboy” image of the Blyton character.
Lady Rich (Jane Chadwick) is a superb casting choice and the pink/purple glittery evening dress complete with a string of pearls completed the aristocratic look perfectly. The added subtle humour is delivered with precise timings by Chadwick.
Alan Titchmarsh’s voiceover during the visual historical voyage explaining the origins surrounding the famous Round-table adds a nice touch to the production. There were a few historical facts in his talk that I didn’t know anything about.
A stage full of smiling faces at the end of the performance suggests that the entire cast involved in “Lashings of Ginger Beer ” have thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Director Richard Conlon triumphs again by giving the cast of actors with learning disabilities the stage to show audiences that they have talent and a fantastic stage presence.
As a regular reviewer and supporter of Blue Apple Theatre, I have had the privilege of watching many of the regular cast members grow in confidence. Jane Chadwick, Andy Canning, and Anna Brisbane stood out as three such members during last night’s performance.
There was an incredible display in the auditorium of merchandise for sale. As seen in the photo below. A fabulous memento to take home afterward.
Lashings of Ginger Beer is on stage at Theatre Royal Winchester Friday 6 January 7.30 pm, Saturday 7 January 7.30 pm when it will also be available to watch at home via Livestream, and Sunday 8 January at 2.30 pm.
For more information about the performance and future productions at the Theatre Royal Winchester please use the links below.
https://www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk/
https://blueappletheatre.com/performances/2022/5/12/lashings-of-ginger-beer
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