WHEN the Beeches Revue Group decided to stage their pantomime Babes in The Wood at the Bingham Hall, they must have realised they would have problems.

And problems they have encountered. Some have been conquered, some have not.

Of one factor there can be little doubt. If hard work and determination are the criterion of success then the group obviously and indisputably deserve it.

With the move from Beeches Road to King Street, some of the infectious pantomime atmosphere has been lost. And from a financial point of view, almost twice as many people must watch this year’s production if it is to be a money-making effort.

There are also production problems at the Bingham Hall.

Yet, despite these drawbacks, there is much to commend Babes in the Wood and the warmth radiated inside the hall has helped to offset the wet winter conditions outside.

Jean Carlin, who plays Robin Hood, adds the necessary touch of professionalism to the part and shows surprising talent as a ventriloquist.

Beeches Revue Group stalwart John Riggall (Nick) who also wrote the script, puts in his usual fine performance.

Lesley Scott (Maid Marian) again does well and Brian Wainwright (Dame Annie Crumpett) shows a good deal of polish.

Peter White (Orace) and Edward Whereat (Fred) provide entertaining interludes and Phillip Howell (Sheriff), Judith Foxwell (Polly) and Ike Payne (Baron) are all competent.

For many, the young children who play the babes will steal the show, and Monday’s couple, Carmel and Colette McNally, proved just what entertainers they are. There are also some excellent items by children from the Beryl Martin School of Dancing.

With the scenery and the costumes, the group have achieved their normal high standard.

The pantomime continues today (Friday) and tomorrow and only when the final takings have been counted will the group know if their gamble has paid off.

A CALL to all young would-be actors and actresses in the Cirencester district was made this week by Mr G Darling, Area Youth Officer at Bourton-on-the-Water. Mr Darling was asking for young people to become members of Cirencester's newly formed Youth Theatre Group.

The group which has been organised by Mr Darling will meet every Monday in the new hall of the former Grammar School, Victoria Road, Cirencester.

The group leader will be Mrs Evelyn Jenner who has a wealth of experience in drama and the live theatre.

Gloucestershire has pioneered the formation of Youth Theatre Groups and there are now several operating in various parts of the county.

Young people aged 14 years of age and upwards who would like to try their hand at acting can learn through modern and enjoyable methods, stage movement, mime, speech training and creative and free drama. And those who have no desire to act may find opportunities in other interests such as designing and making the scenery, stage lighting, stage management and production and make up of music.

One of the main objectives of the group is to encourage and train young people so that in due course they may be more fitted to take active parts in adult drama.

Standard, Friday, February 2, 1968