ACT ONE of Cómpeta's very first summer pantomime has been successfully completed.
A lively group of local people got together at the Balcon Hotel to volunteer their help to put on this June's much anticipated production of Cinderella.
The panto, very much a blue adult version of the traditional tale, will raise money for two charities: CUDECA, the cancer hospice charity (75%), and the Sasha Roberts Scholarship Fund (25%).
Susan Hannam, Director of Nursing for CUDECA, spoke eloquently of the work the charity does in our region and how vitally important fund raising is.
Panto Director Tom Sobel explained that the script for the show has been donated by the Lewes Arms Dramatic Society (LADS) in Sussex which has been performing adult pantomimes for thirty-four years. Because of the East Sussex group's involvement part of the money raised will go to the Sasha Roberts fund. The charity was set up to honour a local artist and teacher who was involved in amateur dramatics in East Sussex.
Tom was keen to point out the essence of the production:
"This is definitely a panto that breaks all the rules but that's part of the fun. It's first and foremost a community event where we hope everyone who comes along will have a really good time. It's comedy but with a serious intent to raise as much money as possible for two extremely worthwhile causes."
The leading role of Cinderella has now been cast and will be played by 25 year-old Lisa Edelman. Lisa, who is a ceramics artist, is also a member of Cómpeta choir One Voice.
Lisa will be joined by amongst others Jean Sampson as Buttons, Chester Williams as Ugly Sister Hydrangea playing opposite Ray Rowden's Antirrhinum, Katherine Paterson as The fairly Godmother, and debut performances by Peter van de Water as Dandini and Martin Robinson as Baron Hardup. The photograph shows the ensemble to date.
"Not every role has been cast yet, so there is still time for anyone who is interested to volunteer." said Tom. "We still need more actors and crew."
Cinderella will be held at the Balcon Hotel, Cómpeta on Saturday June 19th and Sunday June 20th. A pre-performance supper will be available – price 15 euros for three courses plus wine. Tickets for the show are 12 euros, which includes a welcome drink and tapas and they will go on sale in May so make a note in your diary!
Anyone interested in joining the cast or crew should contact Tom 689 704 378 tom@tomsobel.com or Debi Bond 626 192 117 / debi.bond@gmail.com
www.panto.competaart.com
