TWO performances of Old Time Music Hall acts in Wokingham’s Whitty Theatre drew crowds eager to enjoy a walk (and a sing) down memory lane.
Dressed in Victorian finery, audience members were able to enjoy a traditional show given by professional performing artistes from The New Players Theatre, London.
The entertainment was arranged by Wokingham based Victory Theatre Project, co-run by Cathy Valentine and Mandy Dodd.
Cathy from Arborfield, and Mandy from Woodley, have both been actively involved in community theatre and local events for many years. Mandy has a background in set design and theatre production, while Cathy from Circus Scene specialises in events, street theatre performance and variety entertainment.
Together, they have a long-held ambition to bring professional music hall variety acts to Wokingham.
Cathy said: “The show was a real treat.
“Saturday afternoon and evening were both filled with fun, laughter, jaw-dropping entertainment, and fantastic audience participation.
“A classic traditional finale sing-along was a wonderful way to close each show, and to celebrate the true feeling of community togetherness.”
Audiences didn’t need to be asked twice to join in with golden oldies that included: Where Did You Get That Hat? Boiled Beef and Carrots, Any Old Iron, Knees Up Mother Brown, Daddy Wouldn’t Buy Me a Bow Wow, A Little Bit Off The Top, and Pack Up Your Troubles.
Juggling tricks, dancing delights, and cheeky comedy routines added to the enjoyment of the proceedings, which were comically managed by gavel-wielding master of ceremonies Mr Kevin Gauntlett.
The New Players Theatre is known for its ‘unique blend of eccentric characters and broad comedy’.
The company has been delighting audiences with Victorian Music Hall performances since 1936, with numerous successful shows at venues such as The Charing Cross Theatre in London and the City Varieties in Leeds.
Chairman Mr Kevin Gauntlett and music maestro Mr Tom Carradine presented five further marvellous entertainers: Gentleman Juggler Mr Mat Ricardo, Miss Michelle Grant, Miss Jane Horn, Mr Adam Borzone and Mr Andy Moore.
Together the cast of seven offered a living snap-shot of Victorian music hall comedy.
Acts included sung solos, duets and ensembles, dances, comedy, jokes, impressive juggling feats, and plenty of costume changes – all sprinkled with a gentle seasoning of naughty-but-nice saucy humour.
A few unwitting audience members were also brought onto the stage as part of a dance act, adding to the audience’s enjoyment of the show.
Special guest Wokingham Town Mayor Cllr Louise Timlin attended the event with her family.
“We all enjoyed it,” she said.
“It was fantastic to be at such a lovely community event.
“There really was something for everyone to enjoy.”
Wokingham-based Victory Theatre Project is a newly established not-for-profit company dedicated to promoting theatre for everyone.
All proceeds from its two shows will go to fund local good causes.
Cathy and Mandy thank Wokingham Town Council and Wokingham In Need for kindly supporting the venture.
For information, visit Victory Theatre Project’s Facebook page, wokinghaminneed.com, and wokingham-tc.gov.uk
