Photos at the end of the review
The Wrington Drama Group’s production of Roald Dahl’s ‘James and the Giant Peach’ was a delightful experience. With a cast of 29 adults and 12 very young children, the performance was a testament to the group’s dedication and talent. The acting was excellent and almost word perfect, which is quite an achievement given the complexity of Dahl’s work.
The set design was equally impressive, bringing the whimsical world of James and his giant peach to life. The creative use of props and backdrops effectively transported the audience from the dreary home of James’s aunts to the magical, oversized peach and beyond. The attention to detail in the set pieces, such as the intricate design of the peach’s interior and the vibrant colours used throughout, added to the overall enchantment of the production.
Special mention needs to be made of the backstage crew. Julie Kingcott’s direction was of its usual high standard, and together with her talent for set design and the ‘murals’ down each side of the hall, left one speechless. The murals on cloth covered both sides of the hall and were based on Sir Quentin Blake’s illustrations for Roald Dahl’s books.
Technical Directors Toby Abbott and Becky Jameson, along with Will Jameson on lighting and Richard Kingcott and Barry Sale on sound, created some spectacular special effects.
The backstage and set builders, Gabriel Withers, Simon Bartlett, Mark Bullen, and Ian Harries, did a fantastic job. Wardrobe was managed by Jean Erskine and Jane Steele, while Chris Parnham handled props (some of which looked familiar). Last, but not least, Margaret Morris, in her usual role of prompt, had very little to do, which speaks to the smoothness of the performance.
The bar was organised by Mark & Pauline Neary and manned by various members of the club.
The cast was as follows: James played by Lockie Laird/Will Major, Old Green Grasshopper by Joel Laird, Miss Spider by Becky Rubidge/Kat Gausden-Child, Centipede by Julie Plant/Kay Miles, Ladybird by Amy Thomas/Susie Marwood, Earthworm by Jon Gausden-Child, Narrator by Robyn Thomas, New York Tour Guide/Captain/TV Reporter by Michael Berkley, Mr. Trotter by Richard Stockham, Mrs. Trotter by Kat Gausden-Child/Becky Rubidge, Aunt Sponge by Chris Parnham/Lydia Grant, Aunt Spiker by Kay Miles/Julie Plant, Marvellous Magic by Margaret Morris, First Officer by Richard Stockham, Second Officer by Alex Prince, Zoo Keeper by Alex Prince, Lobsters by Alex Prince/Richard Stockham, Octopus by Susie Marwood/Amy Thomas.
The Youth Chorus included Penny Thomas, Verity Thomas, Florrie Dansie, Poppy McMullen, Calum Laird, Effie Prince, George Stuart, Zenna Wright, Iris Laird, Tallulah James, Lily Thompson, and Jess Fowke.
It is difficult to single out individual actors for praise, as the entire cast delivered strong performances. However, special mention must be made of the actors playing the Earthworm and the two Aunties, who brought a great deal of humour to their roles and had the audience laughing throughout the show.
Overall, the Wrington Drama Group’s production was a resounding success, showcasing the group’s ability to bring classic stories to life with energy and precision. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening for all who attended.
