Christchurch Music Society once again pulled out all the stops and delivered a fantastic, classic pantomime, Puss in Boots.

Thanks to tireless effort and fundraising, the church hall has evolved over the years into a veritable mini theatre, and the society hold no bounds with what they are able to achieve onstage.

Community spirit thrives in this little venue, and while, rightly, the players onstage receive the applause, they would be the first to acknowledge the hard-work by the unseen members back-stage – their midnight finishes have not gone un-noticed.

This year, the capable production team of Jan Parfitt, Katie Middleton, Liz McAinsh and Ellen Routley allowed newer members to shine in lead roles.Their confidence paid off.

Ruth Barton and Bethan Ballam struck just the right balance as ‘good’ fairy Priscilla and ‘bad’ fairy Pernicia, and Amy Kempson was a revealation as sweet Princess Esmeralda.

Matt McCabe and Pete Routley made slapstick look all too easy in two hilarious performances as Jasper and Jethro Miller and a new ‘dame’ was born as Bryn Middleton took on the role of Queen Wendy with ease.

Chris Powell was still loveable in spite of a storming performance as Grimgrab the Ogre and by the end of the evening I wanted to take ‘Puss’ Sarah Purnell, and her boots, home with me.

Complete these performances with a well-rehearsed chorus and a supportive band, and you have the recipe for a heart-warming and successful production.

This one runs until Saturday.

New members to the society always welcome. Email:martynhbrown@hotmail.co.uk