PIRATES OF THE PAVILION

Weymouth Pavilion

PIRATES of the Pavilion is the Pavilion’s new summer pantomime, with performances at 2pm and 7pm every Tuesday until August 26.

Only a third of the seats were occupied during the matinee performance this week, which was primarily due to how alluring Weymouth beach is in the hot weather. Nevertheless, the enthusiasm of the cast and audience compensated for this.

I was amused when a group of 12 elderly ladies from a local craft club turned up accessorised with eye patches to join in the fun.

I envisaged a younger audience, thereby proving this is a universal show encompassing subtle adult humour. The story follows the crew of Saucy Sally, Captain Filibuster, Seadog Billy, Buccaneer Becky, Melody the Magical Mermaid and Max the Mouse as they embark on a voyage to Mermaid Reef to claim the hidden treasure.

It’s not all plain sailing though as the villainous Captain Blackhead deceives naive Billy into giving him a job, who then pursues the treasure himself.

The narrative wouldn’t be fit for pantomime without a love interest. Bashful Billy makes numerous attempts to confess his adoration of fellow pirate Becky, and the injection of well known adapted songs by Michael Bublé and One Direction help to deliver feel good vibes throughout the audience.

Audience participation is fantastic and there are a few surprises in store involving water pistols and giant inflatable explosives. I was very impressed with the ultra violet puppetry and illuminated set design.

The natural stage presence of lead characters Charlotte Allen and Danny Rogers belies their young age. If you’re struggling to keep the children occupied this summer, I would definitely recommend a ‘staycation’ to see this summer show.

It is the first summer pantomime Weymouth Pavilion has produced and I would love it to receive the reception it truly deserves. MARIA MORRIS