‘Dracula the Panto’ is almost a traditional pantomime! We certainly have all the elements of one. The outrageous Dame, Rosie Glow, (played with gusto by Barry Barnes), her son Jack (a lively Sam Hayes), her pretty daughter Sonia, the heroine, (Charlotte Holtum), and Richard the hero whom she marries (Alice Pennington). Here it becomes a bit confusing since Richard is on the way to make his fortune but is told "Too late, Richard, Ken Livingstone beat you to it" -so we are not watching ‘Dick Whittington’, and despite the fact that Jack keeps asking for some beans and a cow it soon becomes apparent that they are not in ‘Jack And the Beanstalk’ either!

Since the village hall is full of flying ghosts and bats and the set is a creepy castle with flickering lights and tombstones, we do have some idea of what to expect and when Fairy Garlic comes on to do battle with her enemy (Janet Lord looking gorgeous and glittery despite the garlic hung around her!) we are ready for Count Dracula. Kevin Gilbert was superb in the part, with his wonderful facial expressions. He had the audience in the palm of his hand, - you can imagine the audience reaction to his plaintive cry "Don't boo, I don't like it"! His entourage of four brides who worship him and follow him everywhere were the very funny chorus line of Bev Fitzpatrick, Maria Smith, Alex Briggs Dolman, and Ingrid Cooke.

Dracula's Werewolf butler, Boris, (Neil Marshall at his best), was an adorable Beast and Rosie Glow's cooks, posh Steak and dim Kidney, were a great comedy duo, played by Zara Kent and Jennie Palmer -Vines. Adam Williamson, Val Dayman and Edward Loveday (a cute mini-Dracula) are also in Dracula's castle.

Costumes (by Sylvia Smith) were terrific, and the songs and dances (choreographed by Maria Smith), amazingly good. We always expect a good show from the Main Street Theatre Company, but this unusual pantomime was a rare treat. It is possible that pre-school children may find it a little scary, but on the night I went the children in the audience loved it - and so did the adults!

Richard Palmer was a first time producer for them and was also the drummer - he certainly did a good job.

Written by Vivien Window - Article printed in Harborough Mail on 30th November 2006

It is the first time I have been invited to this company and I thoroughly enjoyed the Panto. This talented company made an excellent job of this unusual show. Sets and costumes were great and suited the show, and musical numbers were well executed. Some imaginative choreography.

Excellent dame, Rosie Glow played by Barry Barnes. Sinister Count Dracula, Kevin Gilbert made an excellent baddy. Nice comedy duo Steak and Kidney, the chefs at the Flying Mouse Inn, Zara Kent and Jennie Palmer-Vines. A great evening's entertainment. The rest of the cast all played their parts well and looked to be enjoying themselves as much as the audience were. Best of luck with your next show, 'Sweet Charity'. Look forward to seeing you again.

Written by Martin Tailby - National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA)