Young cast contributes to Macrobert panto fun
More than 32 young people from the Forth Valley area are part of the cast in this year’s Macrobert panto Sleepin’ Cutie.
They were selected from a field of 60 at singing, dancing and acting workshops held in May. Each one has been given their own character dialogue as well as being in panto song and dance numbers. Panto artistic director Julie Ellen said this week: “Every year Macrobert’s young cast give terrific performances. “This year’s production, Sleepin’ Cutie gives them an even bigger challenge with more song and dance
Sleepin’ Cutie at Macrobert Arts Centre
numbers featuring the full cast and the script requires a greater level of individual acting performance.
“They have risen to the challenge spectacularly and I couldn’t be more proud that I am of the young people who bring the Royal household, the press and the Little Trix to life in this year’s pantomime.”
Forth Valley clubs, groups and schools help put the word out for young people to take part in the panto every year, bringing participants from Stirling, Bridge of Allan, Dunblane, the Hillfoots villages and some from even further afield –Larbert, Falkirk, Linlithgow.
Julie added: “The 32 young people have been working with us since May. In addition we engage an associate director who is there to work specifically with the young cast with support from two young cast leaders, professional youth arts workers, at every session.”
This year’s Dame duties are delivered by Keith McLeish, who’s making his first Macrobert Panto appearance.
Robert Jack, Helen McAlpine and Katie Barnett are back for another year, with the return of Kara Swinney and Gavin Wright. Chloe Edwards and Shane Convery are also welcomed aboard this year, with a host of other characters being played by the talented local young cast.
Working with Julie are the team behind last year’s acclaimed Chick Whittington – Johnny McKnight (writer), Grant Anderson (lighting designer), Alan Penman (musical director/composer/arranger), Karen Martin (choreographer) and Alison Brown (costume design). The set was designed by Richard Evans.
The festive panto fun opened last Friday and will run until Monday December 31. Tickets priced £9.50 to £19.50 are selling fast with a number of performances sold out. To book call the Macrobert Arts Centre box office on 01786 466 666 or visit www. macrobertartscentre.org.