Shetland pony makes debut in Earl Shilton panto show
A PANTO group in Earl Shilton is hoping for a haul of awards after a Cinderella show featuring the debut performance of a Shetland pony.
Stageworks theatre group put on its annual performances, with affable mare-turned-thespian Maydew drawing a carriage round the stage, at Heath Lane Academy.
The panto pony was loaned by The Way of the Horse, a charity that provides equine-facilitated therapy for children and adults who have suffered from emotional trauma.
Jenni Hubbard, director at Stageworks said: “We are all very proud of the cast and crew that took part in the show, and worked really hard to make it a success.
“We rely on our members to undertake multiple roles from performing, to costume and prop making, to promotion and everything in between, so it really is a group achievement when everything comes together.”
The drama group is hoping to repeat its success at the annual Pantomime Alliance of Leicester awards, where last year it picked up accolades for Lead Boy, Young Male Performer, Best Animal and Cameo performance.
Dina Hooton, founder of The Way of the Horse, said Maydew was champ- ing at the bit to get on stage.
Ms Hooton said: “She didn’t really bat an eyelid. Nothing seems to faze her and she’s very comfortable around people.”
This year was the last performance for long-standing member Isaac Mackley, as he heads off to university after more than 10 years starring in the panto.
Ms Hubbard said: “We are so proud of Isaac for everything he has achieved and wish him the best of luck with his A Levels and at university.
“We are definitely all going to miss him but we’re all hoping he’ll come back and see us, and maybe help out on show days if he’s not too busy.”
The next project for the group is their take on the Rocky Monster Show which is scheduled for the Summer.
Ms Hooton said she would be happy for Maydew to be in a similar production again.
The Way of the Horse takes its rescue horses as well as Maydew into schools and care homes, where people can interact with them to help recover from conditions including ADHD, anxiety and depression, and autism.
Maydew will be spending time with students at Hinckley Academy and John Cleveland College over a number of sessions after Easter.