By Harry Mottram: The annual Christmas Pantomime at Theatre Royal Bath has seen its first performances with a new story written by Jon Monie about the further adventures of the boy who never grew up. Appearing as Peter Pan is Marcus J Foreman in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook – who is no stranger to musicals and leading theatre roles having appeared in productions of On the Town and Top Hat in the past – as he flies around Never Never Land inspired by JM Barrie’s original stage play. Pantomimes have a special place in British theatre with its origins inspired by commedia dell’arte from Italy in the 16th century but then adapted, added to and eventually evolved into panto as we know it in the 19th century.
The writer behind this year’s production is Jon Monie who has a long association with the Theatre Royal and pantomime from his days with the late Chris Harris to recent times when he has come to be known as Mr Pantomime. An all round stand up, clown, actor and script writer Jon plays the one sail short of a galleon Smee – no doubt playing opposite and in contrast to TV actor Tristan Gemmill who plays the very evil Captain Hook. As a pantomime baddie Tristan will be enjoying himself hamming it up as he tries to finally pin down Peter Pan and side kick Tinkerbell played Holly Atterton and forcing them to walk the plank.
Also appearing are Bobbie Chambers as Emily Darling and Sarah Jane Buckley in the roles of Ethel Mermaid/Mrs Darling. The cast includes comedy acrobats The Nitwits who will perform as the hilarious bumbling pirate crew, with dancers from The Dorothy Coleborn School of Dance returning to the Theatre Royal stage to add that all important dance element to the show which traditionally features all aspects of theatre with something for the whole family to enjoy. The production is directed by Charlotte Peters, with choreography by Jon Reynolds and musical direction by Joshua Newport.
The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook appears at the Theatre Royal Bath from Thursday 11 December to Sunday 11 January. To book tickets contact the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844 or book online at theatreroyal.org.u Photographer credit Stuart McPherson
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