Ali Baba, Christchurch Church Hall, Newport (From South Wales Argus)

Ali Baba, Christchurch Church Hall, Newport

11:06am Thursday 18th January 2007

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Christchurch Music Society's production of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves at Christchurch Church Hall was another triumphant success.

Year on year the society bring out the best in community spirit with their hilarious and demanding take on traditional panto.

This year was no exception with local cubs and brownies joining the capacity audience to hiss, boo, sing, laugh and put their firm seal of approval on this fine example of family entertainment.

Whilst completely tongue in cheek, there were nontheless some impressive performances.

Dave Green was cheeky and confident, setting the pace as Ali Baba, whilst Andrew Griffiths was the perfect 'baddie', his asides and comic-timing, spot on.

Jan Parfitt certainly hit the right note with her deliciously wicked Olive Baba as did the hilarious Bryn Middleton who stepped into the breach to play the hapless 'dame' Fatima Kebab, the gourmet cook.

With a twinkle in his eye (and more costume changes than Danny la Rue!) the audience loved him.

The slapstick was provided by the talented Megan Parfitt and Harrie Middleton.

Clever choreography and a fair quota of popular songs kept the production bang up to date.

Refreshing that tradition is still very much alive and kicking in Newport.

The panto runs until Saturday.

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