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Nothing says Christmas like a good panto and audiences in our neck of the woods have been spoilt for choice this year.
Both The Orchard Theatre in Dartford and The Woodville in Gravesend have hosted excellent productions, but audiences have been just as impressed by the efforts of a performing arts charity from Northfleet.
Walk Tall, which helps young people express themselves through art and drama, put on its fifth panto at The Mick Jagger Centre (MJC) and performed to a sellout crowd to mark its final date.
The Snow Queen’s principal cast was made up of adult actors who hone their skills through the charity’s drama classes and workshops, but plenty of youngsters were also involved, plus performers from Dartford’s Sylvera School of Dancing.
Becks Hill starred in the title role and even the charity’s chairman Father David Scott took to the stage, with all dressed in a stunning array of costumes provided by Bustles & Breeches in Gravesend.
It was all put together by creative director Robbie Humphries, who also wrote the script.
Walk Tall founder Ann Duke said: “The feedback has been awesome.We had a church audience who have already asked if they can book it out again next year.
“I think we have an incredible cast. They’re not TV names but they are incredibly talented.”
Having had so many sellout performances, the show has raised plenty of money to fund the work that Walk Tall does.
In addition to allowing locals of all ages to get involved in the arts, it also offers people the chance to talk through their problems or issues with counselling services.
Keep an eye on walk-tall.org.uk which details the charity’s work and productions. Call 01322 291100 if you’re interested in the acting workshops and classes.