Golden time for village panto

When the curtains opened on Robinson Crusoe at Rhydycroesau Village Hall it marked the golden anniversary of the panto. And it was no coincidence that to mark the occasion the group is presenting an updated version of the very first pantomime to tread the boards in the village. Over the past 40 years the group has never before staged the same pantomime twice and each is written, produced and performed by local people.

This year Robinson’s desert island is full of some new castaways but also lots of familiar faces including Trefor Jones as Rudi Crusoe, and Jonathan Jones, a Celebrity Castaway. The pair were both in the very first production and have starred in many different roles over the years. Also appearing is perpetual ‘baddy’ Heather Smith as the hard-hearted Captain Pott. Once again the Pantomime will be directed by Debbie Jones.

Mr Jones said that villager, Ian Room, wrote the original Robinson Crusoe script and has also created many memorable pantomimes over the last four decades.

"This year Ian has been part of the group putting together this year’s new version of Robinson Crusoe. Robinson’s ship sets sail from the harbour at Morda, where they 'Morda boats' but soon gets into trouble and things go from bad to worse with hilarious consequences. As always there is a happy ending and lots of music and song to keep things cheerful."

Rhydycroesau Pantomime is a family favourite night out and tickets areon sale at Park Avenue Stores on Mount Road for just £5 for adults £2.50 for children. Performances are at 7.30pm on January 18 and 19, 25 and 26, and February 1 and 2.

There is also a matinee on Sunday afternoon, January 20, at 2.30pm.