Youth and experience
under the direction of Joan Bearman : 1985 – 1989
1985
Pinocchio
Joan Bearman produced ‘Pinocchio’ with a cast of 27.
And the publicity announced :
“ . . the company’s seasonal offering, which features faces both old and new. Eleven-year-old Natalie Colgate and Lynsey Collis, aged 13, share the title rôle of the ever-popular puppet, while, on the experience side, Ronald Cheesman plays Gepetto and Ray Hopper is Jiminy Cricket.”
And the Shoreham Herald had this to say in its January 10 1986 issue- p 15 :
“Another virtuoso performance came from experienced and popular Betty Dawes. Her interpretation of the Blue Fairy showed all the wisdom and benevolence that is associated with the part. Despite the diminutive stature, Natalie Colgate gave a towering performance as Pinocchio blasting out the songs and dialogue with verve and enthusiasm.”
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Joan Bearman again took up the director’s baton and orchestrated a cast of 37.
Guy Boswell said of the production – Shoreham Herald January 15 1988 – p15
“Director Joan Bearman has also been responsible for previous Wick pantomimes and she maintains the high standard.
Weaving the magic together was harmoniously done by a five-piece orchestra, particularly by the delicate flute of Karen Smith, under the direction of Eric Thompson.
Myriads of animals and squabbling rabble members added to the colourful scenes in their dazzling costumes designed by Jenny Law.”
Alice in Wonderland & Through the Looking Glass
Joan Bearman again directed, this time with a cast of 34.
December 22 – Shoreham Herald – page 14 – “FIRST STAR PART WITH ALICE” :
“TEENAGER Rebecca Faggetter will be the leading light with the Wick Theatre Company over Christmas, although she has been in the chorus of two other Wick productions, ‘Pinocchio’ and ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’.
‘I’m really looking forward to playing the part of Alice. I get a lot out of acting and I enjoy myself on stage,’ said Rebecca.
1990
January 05 – Shoreham Herald – page 14 – Fiona Wallace :
“A COLOURFUL cast of animals, Kings, Queens and soldiers delighted young and old alike last week when Alice went through the looking glass.”
