Cursed, A Pantomime

Garrick Theatre is ending their 2025 season with a very popular, and sold out, bang. The locally written pantomime, Cursed, features a large cast, bright and colourful costumes and a live band. 

Cursed follows an original story that calls a little on the Princess and the Frog, but includes lots of children, a Dame come narrator, a fairy and some pirates. 

Leading the cast, Gavin Crane brings bucketloads of positive energy in the Dame role of Gertie, creating a great relationship with the audience. Our Principal Boy Prince Frederick is the clever and studious type, played with sensitivity by Ben Vaughan-Sanders. Frances, our heroine, who also happens to be a witch, was beautifully played by Ellie Skinner, although I feel it important to point out that she looks much younger than 30 years of age, which is a plot point. (Perhaps it is a witch thing?)

Panto veteran Michael Hart is good fun as The King, very nicely supported by a very practical Kirsty Plews as The Queen. Steph Hickey is a welcome addition as The Witch Mother, while Aaron Wilkes relishes his role as villainous Evil Cousin Gregory, having fun with the crowd.

With a cast of 30, the majority of whom have main roles, it is impossible to mention everyone, but the cast all worked hard and formed a warm and cohesive ensemble.

Musical director Ben Clapton led a 4 piece live band, visible at the rear of Garrick’s small stage. They played well, although at times sound balance was an issue.

Ali Louise’s castle set design allowed for multiple locales and made the most of the space, with variation provided with a thoughtful lighting design from Mark Nicholson, operated by Paris Jenner. Sarah Robinson’s choreography, allowed for a spread of abilities, and while not always perfectly executed, had a sense of fun. Costumes (Abby Petersen, Rhiannon Alembick and Crystal McDonald) were colourful and pantomime in feel.

Fun, family friendly and festive. Cursed was an inclusive and clever way to finish 2025.

Kimberley Shaw

Photos by Carly Ranger and Nikita Nankiville.