Stourbridge Pantomime Company - Robinson Crusoe

AS the nation braces itself for a year of cuts, crisis, gloom and doom, we could all do with finding the feel-good factor.

Stourbridge Panto Company has it in abundance for their production of Robinson Crusoe which is currently running at Stourbridge Town Hall.

The plot is straightforward; Robinson, played by the excellent Sarah Rose, is in love with Polly and they sail away in search of a fortune, only to be shipwrecked on an island full of cannibals.

The company exploits the story to maximum effect, taking every chance to get in a gag or song which means the performance moves along at the right pace to keep the audience enthralled throughout.

The show on January 22 was great family entertainment with all the elements of a good panto - spectacular costumes, lots of audience participation and superb special effects created by clever use of lighting and props.

The cast, dancers and musicians were all on good form and it seems almost unfair to pick out individuals for particular attention.

Dave Jones's Dame Delilah Crusoe was hilarious and Julia Tromans, in only her second year in panto, made Bella Crusoe her own.

Director Steve Humpherson has certainly built on the experience of his directing debut last year to get the 2012 show just right.

His talented performers were clearly enjoying their work and their sense of fun spread around the theatre to make sure everyone went home smiling.

Robinson Crusoe runs until Saturday January 28, proceeds from the performances will be donated to charities Reach and the Lupus Society.