Beauty & the Beast fun show

Hall is packed for CRAG

The festive season may be over but community activists CRAG (Cowie Rural Action Group) brought some January cheer to villagers recently.

Around 180 locals enjoyed a free panto at the new St Margaret’s hall courtesy of the volunteer group.

M&M Theatrical Productions staged their show ‘Beauty and the Beast.’

CRAG trustee Gael Strachan said: “Thanks to fundraising and sponsorship from local businesses and supporters we were able to give tickets away free and the place was packed. We aim to bring some fun for local children and community spirit to the village and the tickets were in great demand. We have already booked the panto again for next year as we were so pleased with how things went.

“Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it and the people from the show remarked how well behaved the children were.

“This is the first time we have used the new St Margaret’s community hall and it is a fabulous venue.

“We would like to thank the community, local businesses and supporters who have helped us throughout the year. This is the first time some of the younger children had been to a panto and you could see how much they enjoyed it. It is only thanks to local support that we are able to put on these events and it is greatly appreciated.

“A big thank you also to the janitor Mr Rankin for all his help on the day.”

Four legged friend Taylor as Scamper Elisha Russell playing Belle with Charlie

Panto fun CRAG trustees Mags Bain Hughes, Jane Hamill, Claire Stevenson and Gael Strachan (L-R in polo shirts) with Gaston (Ryan Woodroff ), Beast (Jason Plessas), Belle (Elisha Russell) and Mrs Potts (Charlie Taylor).

Spot the dog Scamper was just one of the roles played by Charlie Taylor

Comedy Jason Plessas took to the stage as the character Gormless

Beauty Elisha Russell takes on the role of Belle