This year saw the return of  Jack and the Beanstalk.  The roles of Mr Fish and Mr Chips caused a great deal of merriment and confusion - especially the gangster type hats.  The final presentation of the Giant's head brought about a mixture of screams and laughter from the audience.  At the end of the final performance donations of £75 each were presented to Bentley School and the Village Hall.

Our willing support group was Ted Poole stage manager, Sandra Canning scenery, Sue Ward costumes and property and Keith Philips sounds and lighting.

The cast in order of appearance were Robert Townley, Peter Bingham, Bob Perkin, Gordon Riley, David Eastall, Kim Eastall, Helen Townley (played two roles) and Ted Poole.

Press Report: (by Michael Anderton)

The Bentley Players performed Jack and the Beanstalk with their usual brand of slapstick at the village hall during the second week of January, their 12th annual pantomime.  The show revolved around hats.  Mr Fish played by Bob Perkin, talked through his (because that was where his words were) and Lady Moneybags played by David Eastall, accidentally lost hers, much to the delight of the audience.  Kim Eastall and Helen Townley played a very polished Jack and Jill and clearly everyone enjoyed themselves, climbing the realistic beanstalk (Little Gem or was it Little Giant?) or overcoming the occasional gaff that always adds flavour to this show.

Special effects this year were via a computer and Sound Man Keith Phillips required a Best Boy, Martin Walters, to assist him.  Colin Allington won the first prize in the raffle.  Donation of £75 each to Bentley School and the Village Hall were made from the proceeds and the Director Charles Cripps extracted a vote from the audience in favour of continuing next year.  Well done Bentley Players, we look forward to your next show and the role that the Giant, Ted Poole will play.


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