Brave performance by NOWMADS Haydn of Bulwell

Haydn Taylor, 63, of Northolme Avenue, a leading light with the NOWMADS (Nottingham West Music and Drama Society), was welcomed back with open arms by fellow performers.

He duly donned his wigs and dresses to take on his familiar role of the pantomime dame.

Back to his mischievous best in the role of Widow Twankey, Haydn endeared himself to the show’s sell-out audiences, wringing out the laughs and showing that he has made a full recovery from his health scare.

Director Martin Belcher, formerly of Hucknall, brought out the best from a 30-strong cast in a show that was full of eastern promise and there were many magical moments in a fun-packed family show that delighted both the young and the young at heart.

The thigh-slapping principal boy Aladdin was played with style and panache by the talented Emma Heydon, while Graham Lambert was at his brilliant best in the role of the devious fortune hunter Abanazar.

Merle Harrison shone in the part of Princess Jasmine, Daniel De Martino was on song in the role of Wishee Washee,while NOWMADS rising star Mia Hardy a little jewel in the NOWMADS crown who impressed in the title role of the group’s fabulous production of Annie, was in top form again as the Genie of the Lamp.

Making their marks in supporting roles were Tom Bailey and Ashley Smith as the hapless coppers Ping and Pong, Carol De Martino was a splendid Slave of the Ring, and the ever reliable Steve Clarke was on top form as The Emperor of China.

Eye-catching costumes,slick scene-changes, splendid choreograped routines directed by Jane Clarke,Merle Harrison and Emma Heydon, enriched the show as did the contributions of a splendid orchestra conducted by musical director John Wilson.

The NOWMADS team made a big impression and a representative of NODA ( National Operatic and Dramatic Association ) who attended a performance gave the show a glowing appraisal.

Collections were made during the four performances of Aladdin and the money generously donated by appreciative audiences is to be presented to the Prostate UK Cancer charity as a tribute to the wonderful hospital staff who looked after Haydn during his illness.

With the dust still settling on another first class NOWMADS production, the theatre group team is already looking forward and its next production will be the classic musical “Half A Sixpence” which is being staged in October.

To pre-book tickets or for more details phone 0115 9194322.