VILLAGE VOICE FEBRUARY 5 2010
‘There’s nothing quite like a village pantomime. It’s all about pulling together.’ A good observance from one of the cast of Dick Whittington which was performed in the Village Hall last week. The cast and production team certainly did pull together and every performance was a stunning success. Over 300 people came over the three nights and they laughed, they shouted, they hissed, they sang, they clapped and whistled their appreciation. It would be wrong to mention names as a panto really is a team effort. Suffice to say that the production, the sound and lighting, the scenery, costumes and make up ( I heard a comment ‘West End standard’), the special effects and, of course, the the acting, music and singing were superb. I, for one, will remember this panto for a long time. The Director, Ronald Travers, said ‘it has been a delight to direct and I’ve not worked with such an enthusiastic cast for a long time’. (see full review) After the panto Penny and Brigitte hosted a jolly cast and production team party at their hostelry.
After all this revelry some people were relieved that the United Benefice Service at St George’s Church, which was the Revd Simon Wright’s last service in the village, started at the later time of 10.15. The church was nicely filled and the choir stalls were packed with 28 in the choir. A glass of bubbly was offered to everyone and Simon and his wife Sue was thanked for his pastoral work and everything he had done for the church over the last four years. On Monday February 1st the choir and bell ringers had their annual outing. This year the Riverford Farm Field Kitchen was chosen as the lunch venue and everyone enjoyed the food and the atmosphere.
Future Events:- No need to leave the village to eat out next week. The Ferry Boat have a Christopher Piper Wine Tasting evening on Friday, February 12th. Ian A’Court, who used to be the viticulteur at Sharpham Wineries will talk a little about the wines whilst guests savour traditional French food. Call 722 368 for reservations. The Red Lion are pulling out the stops also. There is a special Saint Valentine’s menu with a romantic theme happening on Feb 12th,13th and 14th. Then, from Monday Feb 15th to Saturday, Feb 20th our French born chef, Brigitte Tardy, will prepare savoury and sweet pancakes with fillings of your choice served with cider. Be sure to reserve on 722 235. Bon appétit.