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AND THE WINNER IS!! On Friday evening 26th February 2010, myself and Tina McBain attended the first annual awards evening for the Tamworth Pantomine Company Youth Academy. We had no idea what to expect and how the event would run. All of the hard work and planning is of course undertaken by the Youth Academy's own committee, headed by the very affable and efficient Eddie Dix. We think the whole idea of an evening that is dedicated to thanking and rewarding the children for thier efforts throughout a very busy year is one great idea and is welcomed. When one realises that the Tamworth Panto Youth Academy is just over one year old, it is quite amazing what has been achieved in such a short time. It is also incredible that Wendy Doyle, the Artistic Director has kept her energy and enthusiasm for the project in what of course was a most devastating year for her, with the loss of her dear husband John, who was also a valued member of the Panto Company. A VIP table had been set aside for Tina and myself, along with Deputy Mayor Lee Bates and arch villain Terry Batham from the main Panto committee. We were all in agreement that this event was carried off with great aplomb and it was obvious to anyone attending that a great deal of hard work had gone into making everything so lovely. The room was wonderfully decorated, everything was thought of, from the confetti on the tables to the kids having their own 'tuck shop'. I am pleased to report that the parents and grandparents of the students came out in force to support this great event. After a very tasty meal, Eddie and Wendy took to the stage to start the awards proceedings. It was a delight for everyone in the room to see the kids so thrilled with their official pat on the back certificates and prizes. As Wendy quite rightly pointed out, there were really no winners or losers because every child is a star in his or her own right and they are all valued members of the organisation. Cllr. Lee Bates who is of course one of our leading lights, did a magnificent job in presenting the awards. He was as always very willing to join in the celebrations and quite prepared to have a giggle with the rest of us. I for one think Tamworth's political arena will be a much brighter place with Lee in the role as Mayor from April 2010. The awards presented were as follows: Dedication and Achievement awards were presented to: Jessica Bayliss, Alice Dix, Molly Dix, Charlotte Edwards, Thomas Edwards, Jaydeine Firkins, Kacy Firkins, Olivia Friend, Ashley Herbert, Talia Hurley, Thomas Jauncey, Elise Kane, Katie Littlefield, Tonisha Sippitts, Matilda Pratt, George Radcliffe, Jake Robinson, Daniel Shorrock, Molly Shorrock, Millie Southan, Heidi Southan and Leanne Steadman. Achievement Awards were presented to: Oliver Hurley, Maisie Bayliss, Callum Bayliss, Todd Radcliffe, Harvey Keeling, Brittany Allen, Katherine Morris, Niamh Morris, Sophie Mcguigan, Tonisha Sippitts and Dion Timmins. Special Awards were presented to: Thomas Jauncey Drama King Award Jaydeine Firkins Dram Queen Award Alice Dix Star Perfomer of the Year Daniel Shorrock Personality of the Year Olivia Friend Most Imporved Student Elise Kane Most Promising Student Alice Dix Students Student of the Year Charlotte Edwards Runner Up Students Student of the Year Thomas Edwards Comedy Award Chloe Dix Special Achievement Award Laura Ann Doyle & Megan Horton Choreographers Awards Alice Dix Most Outstanding Award         I would like to give massive thanks to all of the parents, friends and committe of the TPCYA for all of their help, support and encouragement during this first year. You really have passed all expectations. Anyone interested in joining the TPCYA, please contact Artistic Director, Wendy Doyle on 07842 588353 ot just come along to the classes on any Saturday at St. Editha's Church Hall in College Lane, Tamworth at 10.30am. Ian Gibbons - Chairman Tamworth Pantomime Company ROBIN IS PLANNING DAYLIGHT ROBBERY TO HELP SENIOR CITIZENS THIS SPRING Tickets for the highly acclaimed Tamworth Panto Company's next panto, Robin Hood will go on sale to the general public during the first week in May. But our hero is planning daylight robbery to help the senior citizens of Tamworth. Ticket prices have been set at £12 and £8 concs, but Robin thinks that our senior citizens may like an afternoon treat. So he is offering early bird matinee tickets for the panto on Thursday and Friday 6th and 7th January for the much reduced price of £5. It's a steal isn't it? You need to obtain your tickets before the end of August to qualify for this offer. ON THE LOOK OUT FOR THE PERFECT MAID MARION CINDERELLA has only just finished brushing away the cobwebs and there's already a new pantomime set to storm Tamworth in a year's time. Following the success of their latest production, the Tamworth Panto Company is busy planning the next theatre adventure - Robin Hood. The popular legend will swap Sherwood Forest for Hopwas Woods as it gallops into the Tamworth Assembly Rooms in January 2011. Robin and his merry men are out to rob from the rich and give to the poor, and are currently on the hunt for the Staffordshire gold! The group are holding auditions throughout March for anybody who would like to be in Robin Hood, and are particularly interested in finding a Maid Marion. Any young females aged between 16 and 25 with a good singing voice are encouraged to apply, so if you could be the next leading lady, or you know where to find the love of Robin's life, they want to hear from you. The Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy also have spaces for new members, so if you are between 6 and 16 and are interested in learning dance, singing, acting and stagecraft, as well as being a part of the annual Tamworth pantomime, don't hesitate to get in touch. The group are always open to new and emerging talent, so if you would like to have an audition, or indeed help behind the scenes, please call Alex on 07825213197, email tina@tamworthpantocompany.co.uk or visit www.tamworthpantocompany.co.uk. CRASH, BANG, WALLOP!! THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF ST. GEORGE SAYS 'TAKE THAT!' The Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy has received a welcome grant of £250 to cover the cost of much needed crash mats for the children to rehearse on safely. Said Royal Society of St. George (Tamworth Branch) spokesperson Paul Mortimer 'We hope this grant will help the Academy children with their work. We have been very impressed with the sterling efforts of the Youth Academy since it inception a year ago. Any organisation that takes 40 or so children, week in, week out and gives them a fabulous structured and educational experience is something we think is worth supporting. We hope the mats are useful and look forward to seeing the youngsters tumbling about in future productions.' Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy chairman Eddie Dix said 'We are really grateful and delighted with this donation and the Royal Society of St. George can be assured that the crash mats will be put to very good use. When the children are rehearsing their tumbles and acrobats, it is important that they are safe, and the mats will certainly go a long way to doing that. Thank you from all at the Academy. SHIVER ME TIMBERS - IT'S A PANTO MUTINY ! The Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy have started rehearsals for their next production, The Mayor of Tamworth's Variety Show which will include a specially written children's pantomime entitled Mutiny. The panto was written and co-directed by 15 year old Chloe Dix. Said Pantomine Company Chairman Ian Gibbons 'I am very impressed and delighted with the direction the Youth Academy is going. I attended their first rehearsal of the Variety Show a few weeks ago and was flabblergasted at the quality of the script-writing ability of young Chloe. I was even more taken aback when I discovered that Mutiny is her first attempt at script-writing. Many people think all you have to do is to string a whole host of jokes together to make a good panto, which of course is not the case at all. You need character development, plot, jokes, pathos...... Chloe has achieved all of this in what I feel will be a very funny and well received production. I take my hat off to her and to all of the members of the Youth Academy. The Panto Company was always very keen on developing writing and directing skills of the youngsters and so far Chloe seems to be handling the job with great flair. I look forward to seeing the whole production come alive on stage in its full version in June. Well done to you all!!' TAMWORTH PANTO COMPANY YOUTH ACADEMY AWARDS NIGHT Get your gladrags on and get along to the Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy Award Night on Friday 26th February 2010. The event is taking place at Wilnecote Parish Hall and starts at 7pm. 2009 was a very special year for us as it saw the formation of the Youth Academy. The awards event is a celebration of the achievements of the students throughout 2009. There will be disco, buffet and of course presentations of various awards. CELEBRATIONS AT STONEYBROKE HALL In these recession hit times, when everyone is having to tighten their belts, the Tamworth Panto Company are pleased to report that the production of Cinderella seems to have bucked a trend with ticket sales having increased by approximately 35%. A delighted Chairman, Ian Gibbons said 'This news is very pleasing. Lots of people went that extra mile to help us this year and I would like to thank all the cast, crew, parents and helpers who gave up their valuable time and skills to get this production off the ground. Also the help we received from Tamworth Borough Council's Assembly Rooms staff, it is greatly appreciated. It seems our reputation is growing year on year, which of course is great news. I would like to give a big thanks to Buttons, our Press Officer, who this year certainly did the job. We are already looking at our next production and the work will start in earnest very soon. To put on the annual show takes a lot of time, effort, money and skill from a lot of people but hopefully everyone will again do their bit as before. If anyone would like to join the Tamworth Panto Company or if there are any children who would like to join the Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy, please email us and we will get back to you. I would like to wish you all a happy and prosperous new year.' CINDERELLA 2009 DVD & PHOTO'S NOW AVAILABLE My daddy has been working long into the night to get this years DVD of Cinderella ready in double quick time. I am very proud of him and I really like it. If any of the cast would like to order a copy, they cost £11 each and you can email your request to tina@tamworthpantocompany.co.uk But unfortunately because last year some people ordered copies and didn't collect them, mainly because they took so long to be ready, we are asking for payment in advance. I hope you understand. Also you may be aware that photographs were taken of the production by our official photographer, Stephen French, and we will be giving you a link to see the photos soon. If you would like to order any photo's you will also be given instructions on the link how to do this. Like with the DVD, if you do require photo's payment will be required in advance. I wish you a Merry Christmas and I am looking forward to seeing you all again on 2nd January 2010. Love from The Fugitive Fox   A COLLAGE OF STILLS FROM THE DVD OF CINDERELLA For more stills from this years DVD of Cinderella, go to the Gallery section NOTE FOR YOUR DIARY Rehearsals have started and it's fun all the way Just a few shots for our publicity, many more will follow as the production progresses. Summer Pantomonium We have not yet all had out summer holidays, and already the press are starting to cover this years pantomime. Press Office Alex Farrell is asking all cast members and parents from the Youth Academy to now start thinking about approaching various schools and community groups about booking for the forthcoming production of Cinderella. Alex said 'Unfortunately, this year we do not have a Sunday perfromance in the schedule, and this is a great shame as it can be one of the busiest days. It is imperative that we all start thinking of encouraging group bookings. Talk to everyone, tell them what a great show it is. Also we need people to start putting posters and flyers in shops and anywhere they think the public will see them, we have a lot of seats to sell, but Cinderella of course is a great panto, and one of the most loved at that.' Youth Academy Clown Parade at Polesworth Carnival at great success The Children of the Tamworth Panto Youth Academy turned out in full clown costume on Saturday 4th July to appear in the procession of Polesworth Carnival, lead by our own Billy Buttons. The kids were a credit to the Youth Academy and indeed the Carnival and looked besplendent in their colourful costumes and makeup, the three mile walk was no problem for most of the children and we would like to let them know how proud we are of their fantastic turnout. Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy goes online The Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy has its own website. The offshoot group of the main Panto Company has been very busy of late, and have made a dramatic impact. They will be performing their award winning routines in front of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in Nuneaton in September. To check out the new website click here Adam is Charming Cinderella will go to the ball, thanks to Tamworth teenager, Adam Gregory who has stepped forward to take on the role of Prince Charming. After a month long search to find the right man for the job the 19 year old sailed through his audition to become the male lead. Adam said 'I am thrilled to be given this opportunity and hope to do Tamworth proud as I step into the part which has been played so well by Glen Chevannes for so many years. I hope I can do the part justice.' Adam is no stranger to the stage; at just 18 Adam landed his first real break as the protaganist, Jack in the production of Moonlight Sky at Her Majesty's Theatre in London. Now Adam can't wait to have his first brush with panto. 'Panto looks so much fun' he said 'I have always wondered what it would be like to be in one' Adam recently joined Tamworth Arts Club along side Cinderella co-star Jenny Barlow- Jennings. 'Jenny is a fantastic actress with a lovely voice' Adam continued. He is also busy rehearsing for the role as Will Parker in Tamworth Arts Club's forthcoming production of Oklahoma John Doyle - Funeral Arrangments I now have details of the funeral arrangement from Wendy. They are as follows: The funeral will take place at: The Heart of England Crematorium, Eastborough Way, Nuneaton, CV11 6WZ at 4.15pm on Friday 12th June 2009 All are welcome at the funeral to pay their respects to this lovely man and to support Wendy and the family on this very sad occasion. You are also invited to join the family at the Boot Inn in Grendon afterwards to have a drink in John's memory. Please be aware that Wendy has requested that we do not wear mainly Black, this is a celebration of John's life and she wishes for everyone to treat it as such. Flowers are welcome, or a donation can be made to a charity or good cause of Wendy's choosing. Please send flowers to M. G. Evans Funeral Directors, Atherstone. If you require any further information, please contact Tina on 07908 695543. JOHN DOYLE IN MEMORIUM 30th May 2009 It is with great regret and sadness that we announce the sudden death of one of our dearest friends, John Doyle who passed away whilst on holiday in Weston Super Mare this week. John was for many years the Stage Manager for the Stephen James Players and his invaluable skills and hard work were much treasured. When the Tamworth Pantomime Company came into being John immediately clicked into action, making the stage, scenery and props to his usual high standards, and saw our production of Sleeping Beauty through with his usual flair. John can best be described as a gentle, calm, caring and kind man, with a wicked sense of humour. Many times during panto rehearsals, or indeed the production he would make us all laugh with his daft quips. He was just someone who was always there, totally unflappable and totally reliable. Wendy, Laura-Ann, Daniel, Chris and Nick will need our support over the coming months as they come to terms with their sad loss, and I know that everyone is thinking of them all, especially at this time. Rest in Peace John - you were a good man and will be missed by us all. We will be letting you all know the funeral arrangements as soon as we have them to hand. THE YOUTH ACADEMY NEEDS YOU An EGM for the Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy will be held of on SATURDAY 6TH JUNE AT 4PM AT THE ST EDITHA'S CHURCH HALL for the official appointment of officers for the Academy. Positions available are Chairperson, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, Fundraising/donations co-ordinator, Parent and Student Reps and Reps from the main TPC committee. Sub-Committee's will also be needed for Fundraising, Planning, Student & Parent Bodies.. Any nominations for any of the above posts should be directed to Wendy Doyle in a sealed envelope by Friday 5th June at 12 noon.. The steering committee have taken us so far, and now that we have a solid footing, need to have this EGM so we are honouring our Constitution and appoint our officers on a more permanent footing to take us through the next 12 months. TAMWORTH PANTO VARIETY SHOW RAISES FUNDS FOR LOCAL CAUSES The annual Tamworth Panto Company Mayor's Variety Show which was this year held at the Tamworth Assembly Rooms proved to be a real winner with local good causes. The accounts have just been released and show that the contributions to the local causes were as follows: The Mayor of Tamworth Chosen Charity, St. Giles Hospice was awarded £172.26 The Open Door Project at St. Editha's Church was awarded £200.00 The Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy was awarded £172.26 This years variety show highlighted the talents of the newly formed Youth Academy and everyone is delighted with the development of this new arm of the Panto Company. TAMWORTH PANTO COMPANY THRILLED BY YOUTH ACADEMY The Tamworth Panto Company were celebrating the success of the Youth Academy in the Rotary Club's Search for a Star competition held at the Assembly Rooms on Wednesday 13th May 2009. The Youth Academy were awarded first prize in the under 14's category for their performance of 'Thriller'. The group will now go forward to perform at Drayton Manor and the NEC later in the year. Chairman of the TPC, Ian Gibbons said 'We are all delighted, it was a great thrill to see the youngsters doing so well. Well done to everyone, especially Wendy, Laura and Megan. The competition as a whole was a great showcase for local talent and all of the finalists in both categories were of a high standard.' PANTO IS NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS In just two years, the Tamworth Pantomime Company has established itself as one of the hardest working community groups in the town and at this week’s AGM Cllr. Lee Bates handed over the reins of Chairman to one of Tamworth’s most well known arts activists, Ian Gibbons. Lee Bates said ‘The Tamworth Pantomime Company first got together in order to rescue Tamworth’s annual Christmas panto, keeping over 40 years of tradition alive and well in our great town. Little did any of us know the laughter, tears, highs and lows we would have to go through on the journey that has now seen us produce two highly successful panto’s along with two Mayor’s Variety Shows in Fazeley and Tamworth, and also produce a successful and talented Youth Academy taking the group and its members from strength to strength. Until you have been involved, many people don’t realise the hard work and commitment that goes into producing a show. I have had the honour to be the Chairman of the Tamworth Panto Company working through our first formative years, and it has been a privilege to work with so many talented, professional and lovely people. I am handing over the reins to Ian Gibbons as the new Chairman, which fills me with the confidence that the company continues to be in safe hands, because quite frankly I cannot think of anyone who has more passion and flair for panto and I look forward to being involved in productions for many years.’ The new committee includes outgoing Chairman Lee Bates who accepted the role as Vice Chairman, Tina McBain as Secretary, Lynda Jackson as Treasurer, Alex Farrell as Press Officer, Wendy Doyle as Youth Academy Representative, Gwen Stephens as Parent Representative and Terry Batham as Social and Fundraising Officer. New Chairman Ian Gibbons thanked Lee for his hard work and stressed that he too felt a sense of achievement and pride that the Tamworth Panto Company was such a success. Ian said ‘It’s quite refreshing to know that in such a short period of time we have come such a long way. But panto is not just for Christmas, the work carries on all year round. It is most pleasing for me to have witnessed the formation of the Youth Academy under the guidance of Wendy Doyle. Seeing the youngster’s working week in, week out taking part in arts activities makes me realise that the future is looking bright, and all of the hard work is worth it. Also, of course in just two short years, we have been able to help raise funds for various local good causes, which is always pleasing. It is now all hands to the deck for this year’s panto, Cinderella at the Assembly Rooms in December, which is of course the most popular of all the panto’s. Tickets are already on sale at the TIC in Market Street.’ The Tamworth Panto Company welcomes new members, both adults and children. If anyone would like to become involved in any capacity, please contact us on 07908 695543 The Tamworth Pantomime Company Youth Academy help the School Children of Tamworth Spend a Penny The newly formed Youth Academy which works under the umbrella of the Tamworth Panto Company and rehearse at St. Editha’s Church Hall, recently presented their first production at the Assembly Rooms. The show was entitled For One Night Only and showcased the talents of over 60 children from the Tamworth area. The event helped raise funds for several local good causes and charities, including the Mayor’s chosen charity - St. Giles Hospice. But the children of the company also raised £200 to go towards the Open Door Project. Youth Academy Artistic Director, Wendy Doyle explained. ‘Ian Gibbons told me what the St.Editha's Church Open Door Project was all about, and how over one week in June, 100’s of children visit St. Editha’s Church and take part in all manner of creative and artistic projects. He enthused on what a fantastic project the annual event is and asked if the Youth Academy would contribute with some funding for the Open Door Project . I asked what they needed, and he said one of the main areas of cost was the hire of the portaloos for the children to use for the week. So we decided it would be nice to help the children spend a penny and we are delighted to present St. Editha’s Church Open Door Project with a cheque for £200. Everyone at the Tamworth Pantomime Company and its Youth Academy wishes the Open Door Project every success for this years workshops.’ Tamworth Assembly Rooms Mayor’s Variety Show 2009 The indefatigable Wendy Doyle, backbone of the Tamworth Pantomime Company, at the request of the main TPC committee, formed a Youth Academy fifteen weeks ago and instantly attracted about sixty enthusiastic youngsters. This one night only at the Assems was a showcase for their burgeoning talent plus a chance to enjoy the Steps dancers again and also see a few of the veterans from the pantomime company. It was, therefore, a show for the parents and friends, who enjoyed it hugely, and it was in a good cause – the Mayor, Cllr. Brian Beales’ charities the St. Giles Hospice at Whittington and Headway, a charity that supports people who have suffered brain trauma, strokes, tumours, physical damage and the like. Cllr. Beales has proved an excellent ambassador for the arts this year – he even went with affable good grace when Laura Doyle summoned members of the audience on stage to take part in the community dance. And it was good to see county council chairman Terry Dix among the distinguished guests; his support and genuine pleasure in the arts is one of his quieter achievements. It was apt that his granddaughter Alice took a solo role in the proceedings. This is not, therefore, a ‘review’ of the evening in the Kenneth Tynan sense. It was not intended to be a coherent and balanced show and since some events were clearly put in after the programme was printed I cannot rave about Laura Doyle and the Hoagy Carmichael number towards the end of the first half. It would not be appropriate to wonder why the Andy Pandy skit worked less well than last year, or to criticise the interminable and unfunny Castle Grounds Clean Up sketch. And if we were baffled by the way the excellent Terry Batham as compere sometimes went on too long it was because he was covering stage management problems backstage. Actually the strength of the item is very dependent on the raw material – the dark scene was excellently done but the Pink Floyd number (from Umma Gumma?) is one of their more rambling self indulgences. Perhaps at this point I should declare an interest as the director of the annual pantomime. Laura Doyle, Terry Batham and Alex Farrell are three of my star players, Juli Eccles’ Steps Dancers are a vital and exhilarating part of the productions. Wendy Doyle has long worked in mysterious anonymity with the children and last year in ‘Dick Whittington’ revealed herself to be a superb comic actress. I expected them to be brilliant, and I’m not surprised that they were. So what gives me most satisfaction is that Wendy’s Youth Academy project has begun with such enthusiasm and early achievement. Even if it did last more than three and a half hours. Well done, Wendy Doyle. JAG 20.4.09 AGM The AGM for the Tamworth Panto COmpany will be held at the St. Editha's Church Hall on Wednesday 6th May at 7.30pm. Please let us know of any apologies and any nominations you may have for the appointments. SAD NEWS We at the Tamworth Panto Company are sorry to hear of the passing of Stephen James, some of the company had the pleasure of working with him over the years and he will be sadly missed. Stephen brought a lot of entertainemnt to the town ofver many years. THE SEARCH IS ON FOR PRINCE CHARMING Have you got what it takes to charm the birds from the trees, can you sing, can you dance, can you act and are you oh so handsome. If so, The Tamworth Pantomime Company want to hear from you. They are now ready to audition for the leading man role for this year’s production of Cinderella, which will be held at the Assembly Rooms in December. Ian Gibbons said ‘I can already hear people say, Easter isn’t here yet and here we are reading about Christmas panto. But it is so important that we have the right person in place to play this leading role very soon as we get all of the publicity and casting ready well in advance. The publicity shoot for panto takes places around May/June. The posters and flyers all have to be produced and of course rehearsals need to be scheduled. So what are we looking for? An adult actor, and this role can be male or female. For many years Tamworth Mr. Song and Dance Man, Glen Chevannes has taken the leading male role, but we are not ruling out returning to tradition and having a thigh slapping female to play this Prince Charming role. So we are looking for an all round entertainer who can act, sing and dance and has charm by the bucket load. Cinderella will be played by Tamworth leading actress and songstress, Jenny Barlow-Jennings who was sensational in last year’s role as Alice Fitzwarren in Dick Whittington. Jenny is just about to take the leading role as Dorothy in Wizard of Oz at the Assembly Rooms with Tamworth Arts Club. Glen is a hard act to follow, but we know there are people out there who would love to take over this role and who are talented enough to do it. The annual panto at the Assembly Rooms is such a fantastic production to be involved in and is such good fun. It plays to packed houses and of course Cinderella is one of the most popular panto’s on the circuit. But of course the main thing is, is that it is great fun for all concerned. The person we are looking for will be available to attend rehearsals each Sunday afternoon from August onwards and of course during the production which takes place in early December with 2 special performances on New Year’s Day and the day after.’ Auditions will be held in the coming weeks, so if you would like further details please call Tina Gibbons on 07908 695543. The Tamworth Panto Company website is www.tamworthpantocompany.co.uk . You would need to bring a backing track of your choice for audition and you would be required to read a short excerpt from script. We look forward to hearing from all those budding Prince Charmings.

COLLECTION BY CAPTAIN BLACKHEART AND THE YOUTH ACADEMY IS PROVING TO BE A SUCCESS CAPTAIN’S BLACK HEART IS WARMED BY TOWN’S GENEROSITY - 17th Feb 2009 The normally villainous Captain Blackheart and the hapless Idle Jack of the Tamworth Pantomime Company were lurking on the streets of Tamworth this week. Not concocting some ghastly plan, but this time to help raise funds for the St. Francis Church, Leyfields Caravan Appeal. This project is to finance the placing of the caravan donated by Rev. Vic Van Den Bergh and his wife Wendy at the Diamond Farm Caravan Park in Brean, Somerset. The caravan will be available for disadvantaged families or those who are convalescing to take a short free holiday by the sea.. Accompanying Captain Blackheart on the street collection were the children from the newly formed Tamworth Pantomime Company Youth Academy. Ian Gibbons (aka Captain Blackheart) said ‘I cannot thank the people of Tamworth enough, especially in this hard economic climate. Everyone was so nice to the children and gave them lots of lovely comments. The Youth Academy is an important part of what we do at the TPC and we feel that it is important that the children in the group realises that not all children are as lucky as they are. So taking part in this fundraising week is a vital development for the children in the Youth Academy.’ The day the photograph was taken, the group collected £124.38 which goes towards the final total. The Tamworth Panto Company will be back on the streets again on Friday and Saturday of this week, so if you see them whilst out shopping in Tamworth, give them a wave and a smile and possibly a few coppers to help the appeal. Update: The final total from the street collection was £388.87 - well done everyone!! FIRST FABULOUS SHOW BY THE YOUTH ACADEMY BILLY BUTTON’S PARADE OF CLOWNS Because Child Poverty is No Joke Performing is obviously a most enjoyable way for me to make my living. And my Clown character Billy Buttons is my favourite alter ego. Clowning is fun, it’s a pleasure to do, but it is hard work. In the USA in particular, clowning is big news, and clown parades are commonplace. I intend over the next few months to recruit a small army of children and parents and present a Parade of Clowns and start a children’s clowning academy. This will have two aims; firstly it will be a pleasant and fun thing to do, and secondly and most importantly it will help others. We intend to make our public debut on Saturday 4th July at the Polesworth Carnival. I am hoping to recruit at least 100 children/parents and hopefully the vast majority of these will come from the Tamworth Panto Company and the Tamworth Panto Youth Academy, various church groups. But we will be throwing the invitation open to the general public too. What will we do? Firstly, learning and presenting clowning skills will give a whole new skill base to the children, and of course not everyone (let’s hope not, I don’t want to put myself out of work!) will go on to become a full working clown, but the skills will stay with them forever. Being able to do a bit of balloon modelling, a bit of face painting and such like and a bit of magic will be something people can show off with forever, becoming the centre of attention at parties etc. A bit like learning a musical instrument, it will always stand you in good stead. You may not get a number one, but you will always be in demand. We intend to bring in guest lecturers and workshops on a whole gambit of skills, from voice projection right through to how to make your own clown costume. Very much in the Blue Peter style of using common place materials, ending up with a most effective costume. There will also be lessons on face painting, balloon modelling, conjuring and all manner of skills. Over the course of the next few months, leading up to the carnival, we will develop the children’s and hopefully the parents clown characters, create individual costumes for each clown and most importantly create that all important unique individual clown face for each child. We will look to create various easy to transport and use props. We will then learn how to parade (we don’t just want to walk along the street in silly clothes, we want to perform). Word of Mouth – how this will grow! Because Clown Parades are visually spectacular and because Clown Parades are great fun it is my view that we will be invited to other events, such as carnivals, fetes and official events in the area. And although we will limit the number of parades we do, I fully envisage us being in great demand from organisers because good news travels fast and people will want to share this spectacle. How we will help others Over the season, which will run mainly during the summer months, but of course there can be times other than the summer, we will be encouraging each clown to fill in their official clown parade sponsor form. So hopefully we will be able to raise a fair amount to help local good causes. We are currently helping to raise funds for a caravan to be sited at Brean Sands in Somerset to give deprived families a chance to have a short holiday. We will always endeavour to raise money for local causes and charities which are children orientated. Is there a cost to doing this? Yes. Although this isn’t aimed at making people spend lots of money, we already know through the Tamworth Pantomime Company, the talent of most of the parents with costumes etc., so the cost of producing a simple, colourful and effective clown costume should be second nature to most. The biggest cost is your time, effort and your commitment. However the rewards are many. The clowning academy will charge a small fee of £4 per session per child/adult. Each session will run for one and a half hours. The academy will be held during a weekday evening from 5.30pm till 7pm. Please contact the Tamworth Panto Company at www.tamworthpantocompany.co.uk if you would like to be part of Billy Buttons Parade of Clowns or the Clown Academy. You can also call me if you have any queries on 07908 695543. Let’s have fun and help others into the bargain. Line Up! Single File! Quick March! Left, right, left, right!!!!! Billy Buttons (aka Ian Gibbons) WARBURTONS HELP US RAISE THE DOUGH The Tamworth Pantomime Company were delighted to received a most welcome contribution fro the Warburtons Bakery Community Giving Team. A £300 cheque made payable to St. Francis Church Outreach Fund was receved today (27th January 2009) to go towards the funding of the caravan at Brean Sands for use by deprived families and convalescents. Ian Gibbons said 'Dan Houle - the Community Funds Co-Ordinator at Warburtons has been most helpful and this donation will go a long way to helping us achieive the funding that is required. If you would like to find out more information about Warburton's Charity Giving, you can log onto www.trustwarburtons.co.uk WISH YOU WERE HERE! OH! I DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE Each year the Tamworth Pantomime Company endeavour to help a local good cause. And this year we have chosen a project which will benefit so many local residents. Rev. Vic Van Den Bergh of St. Francis Church, Leyfields and his wife Wendy, have a caravan which they have been placing at Brean Sands in Somerset on an ad hoc basis during this year to enable families on low incomes and people who are convalescing to have a short holiday. It is amazing how many children have never seen the sea, or had a holiday and this is something the caravan is perfectly suited for. In times of difficulty low income families put holidays at the bottom of their priority list, and generally they are simply not affordable. The problem is, each time the caravan is required, it has to be towed to the beautiful site at Brean Sands in Somerset and then brought back to Tamworth, this is a massive cost each time in fuel alone, let alone the time it takes to do this. The ideal situation would be to site the caravan for a whole season with winter storage at the location to negate the need for it to be taken there and back each time by Rev. Van Den Bergh or another kind person. The total cost of a year at the site, including winter storage is around £1100 and this is what we are trying to raise. It would mean that more families and convalescents would be able to take full use of the facility as it would be there for a whole season. The caravan will then be stored for the winter by the site owners. We have already had a commitment from David Weatherley’s Municipal Charity, which has agreed to grant us £300 toward the project if we raise the balance for the first year within 4 months. Also we have received notifucation from the Royal Society of St. George - Tamworth Branch that they are also making a contribution to the project, for which we are most grateful. Already the Tamworth Panto Company has donated £280 from the proceeds of raffles held at the recent production of Dick Whittington. And we have in place Street Collection Licences for collections in the town for the week from Saturday 14th February to Saturday 21st February 2009 this is when the children are on half term from school. This collection will be carried out by members of the Tamworth Panto Company. Many in costume which, will make a nice spectacle for shoppers etc. Any offers of help from members of the community, or local businesses will be gratefully received. If you would be so kind as to contact me on 07908 695543 if you would like to discuss the matter further I would be grateful Thanks Tina TAMWORTH PANTOMIME COMPANY YOUTH ACADEMY WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM THE SENIOR CAST AND THE STEPS DANCE STUDIO PRESENTS THE MAYOR OF TAMWORTH’S VARIETY SHOW 2009 The Assembly Rooms will be the venue for this very important show when our junior cast from our new Youth Academy will be presenting their first show on Sunday 19th April 2009. After the production costs of the hire of the Assembly Rooms, production and advertising etc., all profits will be split three ways between the Mayor’s (Councillor Brian Beale) Chosen charity, this year’s Tamworth Panto Company’s chosen charity and the Youth Academy. The show will be a glittering affair and if any youngsters would like to take part, please contact Tina on 07908 695543 or contact us via this website. GLEN IS THE TALK OF THE TOWN Our very own Glen is the talk of the town this week, with his massive press presence in both the Herald and the Times, which looks back at Glen's panto career in Tamworth. We could not let this opportunity pass without making comment about the fact that this year is the 20th anniversary of Glen Chevannes first panto appearance in Tamworth. He will be taking a break from his leading man activities after this production, although as he has stated in the press recently, you can never rule out a return and we hope this is certainly the case. We know he will continue to support us and I am sure we will see Glen tread the boards with us some time again in the future. As a performer, Glen is a credit to this town and the panto company. He is a consummate professional and we wish him all the very best for the future. WE'RE COOKING UP A GREAT PANTO SAYS THE LOCAL PRESS TAMWORTH PANTO COMPANY AT LIGHTS SWITCH ON EVENT ON 21ST NOVEMBER 2008 Dick Whittington and Alice Fitzwarren will be wowing the crowd with their wonderful set of songs from this year's pantomime, Dick Whittington in St. Editha's Square on Friday 21st November. Our hero and heroine will be accompanied by the dastardly King Rat who will be dishing up the comic capers with Nigella Noodles and Idle Jack. The Lights switching ceremony is one of the towns most keenly attended community events. The panto group will be on had during the whole evening at a panto stall which has been organised by Nigella Noodles (aka Cllr. Lee Bates). The event starts at 5pm and the panto cast will be on stage at 7.30pm to welcome Father Christmas and the winner of the Tamworth Herald poster competition, who will throw the switch to light up the town for Christmas. The event is free, and well worth a visit. UPDATE - THE TAMWORTH PANTO COMPANY AGM As the commitment to the production is so heavy at the moment, it has been decided the postpone the AGM until after Christmas, the date is to be confirmed. We have arranged an AGM for the panto company to be held on Sunday 30th November at the Church Hall in College Lane, at 1.30pm.  All nominations for the officers posts should be with us by 23rd November please.  Nominations for the following positions are required: Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Press Officer and general committee members too.  I look forward to hearing from you. Regards Tina Gibbons TAMWORTH PANTOMIME COMPANY YOUTH ACADEMY LAUNCHED We are delighted to announce that we have now launched an official youth academy. The Tamworth Pantomime Company Youth Academy will open on Saturday 10th January. The group will have two sections, the seniors for ages 10 yrs and upwards, and the junior group will be for 4 - 10 yr olds. Wendy Doyle has been appointed as Artistic Director of this Junior Section. The group will have its own constitution and its own bank account, and will run independantly of the main Tamworth Panto Company, although will be affiliated with it. Wendy will be co-opted to the main Panto committee at the AGM so she can feed back to the main group on the Junior Sections activities. The Tamworth Panto Company Youth Academy will work with various senior members on occasion, in respect of vocal tuition, drama tuition etc. Ian Gibbons said 'This is a most exciting time for the Panto Company and I am delighted that we now have an official junior section. It is what we are all about, nurturing young talent for the future. Already the Assembly Rooms has been booked for the first junior show on Sunday 19th April 2009 when we will be presenting the Mayor of Tamworth's Variety Show. Details of this will be posted soon.' There will also be a section of this website dedicated to the Youth Academy.

BONDS BAR PRESENT PANTO COMPANY WITH DONATION The great folk at one of Tamworth's busiest bars, Bonds in Church Street took part in the old football card game at the weekend to help raise funds for the Tamworth Panto Company. The lucky winner of the card was none other than proprietor Jim Buckley himself. The deal on the card was 50/50% split on the takings which should have produced a welcome £40 for the panto company. Of course Jim felt a little guilty at winning the prize and immediately donated his share back to the Panto Company. We now have £80 sitting here which today will be paid towards the Assembly Rooms bill. We would like to thank Jim and all his customers for their generosity and effort, its really heartwarming to hear the comments of the customers and staff who thought what we all do at the TPC is well worth supporting. Thanks Bonds it means a lot to us. We have paid the £80 to Tamworth Borough Council to offset some of the cost for the brochure which totals £200. Thanks Bonds xx Tamworth Pantomime Company Make History at Tamworth Borough Council. The Tamworth Pantomime Company has made history this week by becoming the first community group to use the Tamworth Borough Councils scrutiny ‘calling all in’ process where they are asking the Corporate Scrutiny Committee to review all its charges for community groups. The group who were quoted £5000 for 1 weeks run of its community voluntary Tamworth Pantomime this week felt that this out prices and disadvantages community groups particularly those wishing to start up in the town. The Corporate Scrutiny Committee will look at the charges which cover rent of buildings, equipment and staff for all community groups wishing to access council services and ensuring a fair footing for all. As a result this move by the group the current chairman Cllr Lee Bates has stepped down from the post as he sits on the corporate scrutiny committee and would have to declare an interest being a borough councillor. Lee said “I feel it is the right thing for the pantomime company to use the scrutiny process and ask for a review of the charges made to community groups. Any review has to be healthy and is to be encouraged. As a member of the Corporate Scrutiny Committee I have to declare an interest in this matter and in the benefit of the pantomime group I feel it is right I step down as chairman at this stage although will still remain an active member of the Pantomime Company. I have been proud of seeing the Tamworth Pantomime Company through its first year with the committee and I am looking forward to staring in this production of Dick Whittington”. The Tamworth Pantomime Company is a community group who aims to keep a home grown local annual pantomime going in Tamworth. Any member of the public can get involved and tred the boards that saw their first production of Sleeping Beauty at the Assembly Rooms last year after starting up with nothing. Secretary Tina Mcbain said “This review is to make sure fairness is being adhered to and that community groups have a fair footing when accessing council facilities. We know as a group all to well the struggles you have to go through setting up particularly from nothing as we did. The review will ensure fairness for all and make clear the position of the council in assessing its charges and helping voluntary community groups in Tamworth.” SENSE IS WORKING OVERTIME THE TAMWORTH PANTO COMPANY IN XTC!! A fruitful meeting was held with David Tomlinson at the Assembly Rooms last Thursday 10th July, when we discussed the charges for the production of Dick Whittington. We have received a letter from David today, which outlines the amended charges. In effect the costs have been reduced by approximately £2,240 - this is made up from a massive reduction for the hire of the pa system, and the company using its own volunteers for the stwearding and follow spot operation. It is vital that we now have in place stewards for the production who will be available at a pre arranged date and time for staff training on required procedures approximately a week before the production begins. We will need to rota the stewards for the run of the panto, so we always ensure there are adequate people on board to cover the legal requirements. So whoever is available to help with stewarding, please let me know as soon as possible so I can organise the training and rota with the venue. Also we will need an operator for the follow spot. The charge saved for this is a huge £634 so it is imperative that we have someone sensible to operate the spot. Please let me know if you can help with this so there is no headache at the last minute. Normal and happy relations are fully resumed with the council, thanks mainly to David Tomlinson, who we welcome back to work with a flurry of activity lol. I have a lot of respect for David, who, in spite of our meeting last week, still seems happy and contented with the outcome. We will still be taking the Scrutiny route as we think it is essential to look at the overall charges the council levy on local groups for the hire of the venue etc. This is ongoing and reports will appear as and when they are available. Finally, panto crew - dont take your foot off the gas, there is lots to do, promote, promote, promote and also our reduction does not in any way negate the need for us to sell and fundraise. The Santa Stroll is still taking place. So we want to see the list of walkers getting filled up. Queen Cat xx Oh! just an afterthought - now that normal happy, funloveing relations have been restored, I am just about to delete, even temporarily, all negative bulletins from this page and from the guestbook, cos lets face it, panto is all about fun, fun, fun. FUNDRAISING SUCCESS FOR DANIEL IN SPITE OF BAD WEATHER Last Saturday 12th July, shoppers in Tamworth town centre gave a big push to the fund raising efforts of the Tamworth Pantomime Company who were out in force with some of their friends and associates collecting for Cerebral Palsy sufferer, Daniel Chapman whose family are trying to raise £5000 for a stair climber for Daniel to help with his mobility. I would like to thank from the bottom of my heart all those who gave so generously. The British weather did us no favours; rain and wind were the main hampering factors, but all the helpers and collectors and the general public raised a big smile for us. We managed to collect £470.17 which is admirable. But I always knew Tamworth public would help as they have proven time and time again they have big hearts. Tamworth Panto Company would especially like to thank Tamworth Borough Council for issuing the street collection licences, the Tamworth Borough Council market supervisors who were as ever supportive and helpful, St. Editha’s Church through Rev. Alan Barrett for allowing us to place the bouncy castle at the church, Tamworth Inflatables for donating one of their fantastic bouncy castles, Balloons and Tunes for the wonderful eye catching 6’ balloon clown, which was places in Middle Entry and certainly helped attract attention to the collection. Also the fabulous Missfit Costumes for decking out various members of the Panto Company and all of the children and parents who gave their time and effort collecting and dressing up so splendidly, and what can one say, Billy Buttons, that dynamic clown was just simply awesome, the kids loved him, the parents loved him. The £470.17 we raised will now go into the Tamworth Panto Company’s Community account and be paid directly to the company the stair climber is being purchased from. There are other fundraising activities planned for the near future by other organisations, and once the full amount has been raised, then the stair climber can be purchased. There is a further fundraising day on 25th August being organised by the Moat House. So the people of Tamworth are trying to help and it is heart warming to know how much support this appeal is getting. Thank you once again to everyone involved. Especially the kind hearted residents of Tamworth. We knew you would help. We wish Daniel and his family the very best of luck with the appeal and we were glad to help. The Tamworth Panto Company are now going to concentrate fundraising efforts on raising funds for the British Legion Poppy Appeal by way of a charity concert to help fund the band to play at the annual Poppy Day parade. WE'RE ARE READY TO GO - REHEARSALS START DATE SET Just so everyonw knows, the rehearsals for the production of Dick Whittington start on Sunday 31st August. We are currently looking at the best place to rehears and we will advise you as soon as possible. Please will everyone start reading their scripts now, so that are familiar with them. We will be printing some more scipts off as we know one or two dont have the complete script. There will also be other rehearsals scheduled for specific people and characters, this is something dDirector John Garforth insists on, so that scenes can be well rehearsed with just the people who are in them, making the time spent rehearsing much more productive. Rehearsal time if a fun time, but also very serious. Last years production of Sleeping Beauty was met with a very positive reaction, but there is an old showbiz saying which goes : 'You're only as good as your last show!' We are sure we will make Dick Whittington bigger and better. This year we will be putting up a diary on this website which will let us all know when you are not able to attend rehearsals, this way we will all know where we are. So please let Tina know if there are any dates you cannot rehearse please. Another thing everyone can do, is read your script, think about props, costumes, and ideas you may have. Bring your thoughts to the first rehearsal for discussion and then bring props to each rehearsal, it really does help. TAMWORTH PANTO COMPANY AND FRIENDS RAISING CASH AND RAISING SMILES On Saturday 12th July, shoppers in Tamworth town centre could be forgiven for thinking Christmas has started early, because the town centre will be buzzing with all sorts of pantomime characters. In St. Editha’s Square there will be a 6ft balloon clown, top children’s clown Bibbledy Bob will also be about, Tabitha McTwist will be balloon modelling, Billy Buttons will be getting up to his usual antics, a bouncy castle will be sited at St. Editha’s Church, Nigella Noodles will be offering all the latest comic capers in the culinary department. The collection runs from 10am til 3pm. All of this merry banter and tin shaking has on purpose in mind. The is to raise as much money as possible to help towards the £5000 needed to enable Cerebral Palsy sufferer Daniel Chapman purchase his stair climber to accompany his new special wheelchair. The stair climber will enable Daniel to get up stairs, not only in his home, but in other places, like his friends homes, public places etc. So you can see how much this will improve his lifestyle. Tamworth Panto Company has the policy to try and help local good causes in a small way, so this year the company has committed to help to raise as much as they can to help Daniel to get his stair climber to accompany the chair he already has. Tina McBain, Secretary of the Tamworth Pantomime Company said (aka Queen Cat)‘ The Borough Council has kindly issued us with street a collection licence, and St. Editha’s Church has provided us with space and power for the bouncy castle and various stalls for this special day of collecting in the town. The Panto Company are hoping that members of the general public, businesses and groups will consider contacting them to help out too. Everyone is welcome to come and give a hand. I know from previous occasions we have had fund raising days that the Tamworth public have big hearts and we are sure this is going to be very successful. I am just praying for good weather. This day is for Daniel, it’s the only opportunity the Tamworth Panto Company will have to raise these funds, so it’s important that everyone gets on board to help us make a difference.’ ‘The money we raise will be paid directly to the company the stair climber is being purchased from, once the full amount has been raised from this and future fundraising events by other groups and companies, then the stair climber can be purchased. There is a further fundraising day on 25th August being organised by the Moat House. So the people of Tamworth are trying to help and it is heart warming to know how much support this appeal is getting. KIND OFFER TO FUNDRAISE One of Tamworth's most popular bars, Bonds in Church Street, have today offered to dispaly posters and also to raise funds for us via football cards. Proprietor Jim Buckley was very supportive when we explained our plight regading the charges and we thank him very much. NIGELLA NOODLES POSTER CAMPAIGN INCENTIVE Further to the recent Panto Meeting, it was mentioned about getting as many posters in Shop windows as possible. In light of this and I know many took away some posters with you, I would like to lay down the gauntlet and offer a prize to the person who can get the most posters up and about the area. The posters can be displayed in Shops, Community Halls, Take Aways/Chips Shops, Work Canteens anywhere people will see and give us advertising.  If you could e-mail me the places that you have put them up, at our first rehearsal which looks set to be in August who ever has put up the most posters for this years Panto will get a Prize. So remember to e-mail me with where you have put them and may the force be with you... If you need more posters then please contact myself and I will gladly get some more to you. Kind Regards Nigella Noodles (aka Lee Bates) PERSONAL APPEARANCE AT TAMWORTH'S AWARD WINNING TIC Today, Stacey who is the manager of the Tamworth Tourist Information Centre, has confirmed that she will be organising a personal appearance and a meet and greet for various members of the Dick Whittington Cast at the TIC along with Santa and his Elf. (are you reading this Alex lol). The day will be on a Saturday, during November, date to be confirmed, when we will be handing out flyers and going through a few songs from the show. Big thumbs up to the staff at the TIC, here we are in sunny July, if you walk past the TIC you will see a magnificent Dick Whittington display in the main window, with all the Christmas trimmings and Santa hat, you can never start too early can you. If any other local businesses or groups would like a personal appearance from the cast please contact us. PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITY FOR DICK WHITTINGTON IS WELL UNDER WAY We have had confirmation that the cast will be invited to make a personal appearance at the Co-op Department Store in Tamworth nearer the production to raise the profile and awareness of the forthcoming pantomime. Also we are in negotiations with the library to present a Saturday morning workshop where Queen Cat will tell the story of Dick Whittington and various members of the cast will be available to meet and greet the children. As normal we will be on hand to help with the promotion of the Christmas Lights Switch on in St. Editha's Square on Friday 21st November, should we be required. We haven't been officially invited as yet. Lee has been attending the Christmas Committee meetings on our behalf. We assume that we will be notified in due course. But what is 100% confirmed is that we will have a massive presence on the same evening at the Christmas Tree Festival which takes place inside St. Editha's Church. Last year was the first time this event took place and it was a huge success. This event is organised by St. Editha's Church and the mainstays behind the hard work are Paul and Pam Pearce of Balloons and Tunes and Mary Mottram from the Flower Club. This year Ian is taking an active role also in the organisation of the entertainment inside the church at this event. If any local businesses or groups would like to discuss the possibility of the Tamworth Panto Company making a personal appearance in October and November at your premises or event, please contact us. LOCAL HERO'S, LOCAL VILLAINS SET FOR ST. GEORGE'S FESTIVAL 2009 While the Junior cast are working hard on the Mayor of Fazeley's Variety Show, various members of the senior cast will be working on one of John Garforth's most successful plays, 'Local Hero's, Local Villains' - which has only ever been performed on one ocassion previously at the magnificent Town Hall in Tamworth for the tercentenery of Guys Town Hall. We are now reviving this play to be part of next years St. George's Day celebrations. The casting is as follows: Narrator - Terry Batham Unmarried Mother - Helen Pitts Child 1 - Emily Pitts Child 2 - Oliver Pitts (as yet unborn) Ghost of Thomas Guy - Ian Gibbons Ghost of William MacGregor - Alex Farrell Ghost of Sir Robert Peel - Lee Bates Guys Housekeeper - Tina McBain MaGregor's Housekeeper - Becca Howe Lady Julia Peel - Victoria Gordon - TBC In pre-Christian times a place where two rivers meet was a sacred site and druids would perform religious rituals, sacrificing virgins and examining the entrails of slaughtered animals. Such a spiritual locale where the Tame and Anker meet is now the home of Ethelfleda’s statue and sitting there on a summer evening you can still sense the nymphs, dryads and ghosts from the past. On a midsummer night amid the thunder and lightning of a freak storm three elderly gentlemen find themselves conjured up from nowhere and for no good reason. They are Thomas Guy, Sir Robert Peel and the Reverend William MacGregor. This is the setting for ‘Local Heroes, Local Villains’, a play which TPC is reviving at the town hall early next year. It was written as contribution to the borough’s celebrations commemorating three hundred years of Thomas Guy’s town hall, but is coming back as part of next year’s St. George’s Day festivities. Picture above shows Herald press coverage of when this was last performed. THE MAYOR OF FAZELEY'S VARIETY SHOW 2009 It's a good time to be involved with the Tamworth Pantomime Company as lots of fun things are going on. We are pleased to announce that Wendy Doyle is now organising the date for the Mayor of Fazeley's Variety Show. It will be the second year we have undertaken this commitment. The date will be early May 2009. Wendy Doyle will be producing the show on behalf of the company. Seeing the younger members performing this year was an inspriation to the commitee and we want to develop a junior side of the company, of which Wendy will be the Artistic Director, reporting directly back to the main committee. The event will take place again at Fazeley Town Hall, and for those who attended this year, you will know what a great show it was. The Mayor of Fazeley this year is Cllr. Robert Pritchard and his chosen charity is Staffordshire County Air Ambulance, which we feel is a very worthy cause. In 2008 the Mayor of Fazeley was our very own Lee Bates who of course attended and performed in the show. We do not expect Cllr. Pritchard to perform of course, but we would be delighted if he would attend the event, an official invitation will be sent in due course. So start thinking about those routines. You did us proud last time. Let's see if we can make it even better in 2009. The Tamworth Pantomime Company committe would like to take this opportunity to thank Wendy Doyle for all her hard work in the past, and to welcome her into her new role as the Artistic Director of the junior section. THE BUROCRATIC PROCESS STARTS We have received advice from a Councillor on how to start the process of looking into the policy which dictates the charges for the Assembly Rooms for not only ourselves, but for all local community based groups. This is to see if we can get the cabinet to look at the current pricing policy, to see if they feel it is justified. Hopefully they may feel we have a good case. We will keep you all informed of the progress via this page. We would like to thank the Conservative Councillor who has given us this information to help the buroicratic process along. 29th June 2008 Cllr. M. Summers Chairman of Scrutiny Committee, Tamworth Borough Council Marmion House Tamworth Staffs Dear Cllr. Summers The Tamworth Pantomime Company is a community based arts group and we feel that the charges being levied upon us and possibly other arts and local community groups in Tamworth for the use of The Assembly Rooms are excessive. We have booked the venue for our annual pantomime for December this year, and we are dismayed at the charges relating to the hire. I would therefore ask that this matter be looked into by the Scrutiny Committee, with a view to taking recommendation for significant reduction for the use of council facilities such as The Assembly Rooms to Cabinet. Specifically the ancillary charges for such items as lighting, pa system, stewarding etc etc…. I can furnish you with more details on the charges if you wish. I look forward to your reply. Regards Tina McBain Secretary cc. Jeremy Oates Bruce Boughton Peter Seekings Simon Peaple Chris Cooke Mary Oates John Faulkner Lee Bates DICK WHITTINGTON AFTER SHOW CELEBRATION FRIDAY 9TH JANUARY 2009 AT THE MOAT HOUSE We are pleased to announce that this years Dick Whittington after show party will be taking place at the Moat House, Lichfield Street, Tamworth. It will be held on Friday 9th January. Everyone is welcome to attend, cast crew, parents, guardians etc are welcome. There will be a buffet and of course we will need to start fundraisingfor Cinderella in 2009 straight away. We already have some sort of indication that the cost of sending Cinderella to the ball will be high, so if any younger cast members would like to book a spot and hopefully put on a short show to entertain the panto members and friends and relatives, this would be most welcome. Hopefully the club in good old busker fashion will allow us to pass the hat round, to help our continued fundraising, but we are sure we will carry it off with aplomb. WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM OUR FRIENDS Cllrs. Ken and Maureen Gant, who co-ordinate the annual Poppy Appeal in Tamworth from The Tamworth Branch of the British Legion have kindly donated collection tins for us to use for the Daniel Chapman collection day on 12th July. The Borough council have now issues us with the street collection licence. Ken said 'I am only to pleased to help out, and what the Tamworth Panto Company is doing for this little lad is something to be applauded. I hope the Tamworth public will give generously on the day. When Maureen and I held the mayoral positions, we always visited the annual panto. It is a tradition in this town that should be upheld and supported and if we can help in any other way, we certainly will. FIRST MAJOR PRESS FOR DICK WHITTINGTON Thursday 12th June 2008 Today's local press in the Tamworth Herald and Tamworth Times features the company's production of Dick Whittington. The Times feature is all about fundraising day for Daniel on 12th July. The Tamworth Herald feature is about tickets on sale now at the TIC. Can everyone involved with the company contact us now about whether you will be available for the fundraising day and also to arrange a time to collect posters and flyers to distribute in your area. We would also like a team to go round all the town centre businesses to ask if they can display a poster. Voluneers please contact Tina asap tina@tamworthpantocompany.co.uk. Hopefully we can have saturation coverage by beginning of August through to the curtain up. Smart Turn Out for Fundraising thanks to Missfit Proprietor of Tamworth's leading costume hire company, Missfits, Debbie Murphy has agreed to help with the Tamworth Panto Company's costumes for the fundraising street collection. Said Debbie 'I am delighted to help. The Tamworth Pantomine Company are one of my best customers, and it will be a pleasure to help in this small way. In my line of business I am often asked to donate costumes, I have to turn down most requests as they are so frequent, but the Tamworth Panto Company have done such a lot to help promote my business, I though this was the least I could to.' For more information on Missfit, please go to the links page. Tamworth Inflatables respond to Queen Cat's Call The Tamworth based bouncy castle company, Tamworth Inflatables has freed up a date in their busy diary to offer the services of one of their fabulous bouncy castles, free of charge to help with the fundraising for Daniel Chapman on 12th July. Said Tamworth Inflatable proprietor Helen 'We thought that this was something we could help with - our business is geared around children's enjoyment, and its a great idea that whilst parents will be paying for their children to bounce about on the castle in the town centre on that day, they will also be helping little Daniels fund to get him the stair climber he so badly needs. I got the call from Queen Cat who explained Daniel's plight. Its very hard to say no to Queen Cat, especially when Captain Blackheart has an inflatable sword at your throat.' Tamworth's leading Clown, Bibbledy Bob agrees to lend a helping hand Within hours of the news item about Daniel Chapman appearing on this page, we had a call from one of the midlands, and without doubt, Tamworth's finest clowns, Bibbledy Bob. He was enquiring if he could lend a hand on the day we do the street collection in the town. Of course we said yes, we would be delighted. Bibbledy Bob is the alter ego of top midlands DJ and actor, Robert Bowker, who said 'I have known Captain Blackheart and Queen Cat for many years and have admired the work they have done with the Tamworth Pantomime Company. I took my famly to see Sleeping Beauty last year and was knocked out by the production. I am an Equity member myself and was looking at the possibility of joining the company. But unfortunately, being a preofessional DJ and clown means i cannot spend the time it takes. But when i saw this appeal, I thought I could easily spare a few hours to help the company raise some money towards Daniels stair climber.' Tina McBain said ' We cannot thank Bibbledy Bob enough, he will be a great asset to the fundraising day, all the kids love him and he is so damn funny. He can do all manner of things from balloon modelling, face painting and magic.' To enquire about booking Bibbledy Bob for your event or children's party, please find details on our links page. TAMWORTH PANTOMIME COMPANY LAUNCHES THE PURRRRFECT FAMILY PANTO DICK WHITTINGTON TICKETS ON SALE NOW We may not have even reached midsummers day, but The Tamworth Pantomime Company is already turning its attention to panto, mince pies and all the glitter and magic of Christmas! The company look forward to welcoming everyone to a stunning show which is full of lots of comedy, colourful sets and gorgeous costumes. It’s the ideal Christmas treat for the whole family! The streets of London may be paved with gold but you don’t have to go that far to see Tamworth’s finest 2008 pantomime, DICK WHITTINGTON, which runs at The Assembly Rooms this Christmas! Leading the cast of this year’s fun packed panto as always is Tamworth’s top song and dance cabaret artist, Glen Chevannes in the role of Dick. The sensational Victoria Gordon will be playing the love struck Alice Fitzwarren. Victoria has made quite a name for herself in recent years with her fantastic abilities as a leading lady and songstress. Dick Whittington’s magical cat is played by the fabulous dancer Laura Doyle. Starring as the wicked King Rat is our favourite villain Terry Batham, with his host of ratlings. But this year the audience will be in for a double helping of villainry as Captain Blackheart, played by Ian Gibbons also plots against the hero. The dastardly Capt. Blackheart is assisted in his capers by the cutest cabin pirate you ever saw, in the guise of Pipsqueak played by Emily Pitts (7). Joining them in the comic capers will be Alex Farrell as the hapless Idle Jack assisted by the love of his life, so she says, Lizzy played by Olivia Shepherd and Lee Bates as the comic dame, Nigella Noodles. Lee has quickly established himself as a hilarious comic actor, this being his third year in panto. Lynda Jackson will be playing Lucrezia Fitzwarren, who constantly nags her husband Alderman Fitzwarren, played by Eamonn Burns. Dicks plight looks to be in jeopardy, but for the magic and charm of Queen Cat played by Tina McBain and her catlings who will be on hand to sort out the evil antics of King Rat and Captain Blackheart. The Steps Dance Studio will again be providing their own brand of excellent dancing routines to bring that essential glamour to the streets of Old London Town. This years pantomime has been especially written and is being Directed by Tamworth’s top author and playwright, John Garforth who has a magnificent pedigree. John wrote many of the Avengers books to accompany the TV series in the 60’s. Said publicity spokesman Ian Gibbons ‘I think we have all the ingredients right for a fabulous production again this year. Dick Whittington is a superb tale with all the boo’s and hisses and cheers in the right places. The cast is fantastic and the script is perfect for this family show. We look forward to seeing friends old and new at the Assembly Rooms in December. Tickets are now on sale at the Tamworth Tourist Information Centre, Market Street, Tamworth. Telephone 01827 709618.

LET'S HELP A LITTLE TAMWORTH BOY WITH HIS MOBILITY

Many of you will have seen the story of Daniel Chapman in the Tamworth Herald on Thursday 29th May about the family's quest to raise funds for Daniel's mobility problems. Captain Blackheart read this story and his black heart melted. Shhhhhhhhh don't tell anyone !!!!! He thought the Tamworth Panto Company might be able to help. It is our policy to try and help local good causes in a small way, so this year we have committed the company to raise as much as we can to help Daniel to get his stair climber to accompany the chair he has. The stair climber will enable Daniel to get up stairs, not only in his home, but in other places, like his friends homes, public places etc. So you can see how much this will improve his lifestyle. As I am writing this, Queen Cat prrrrrrrrrrr is about to contact the council to find out how we can get a street collection licence for a special day of collecting in the town. And for one day only, The evil King Rat and the despicable Captain Blackheart will be nice to everyone (something not to be missed i would say !!) Everyone reading this, all cast members, mums and dads, friends, relatives, colleagues etc, please consider joining us on this carnival of collecting in panto dress to make is as impactual as possible and get as much as we can for Daniel and make a bit of a difference. Please would you email me if you would like to take part, or anyone else reading this who has any fundraising ideas to help then also contact me at tina@tamworthpantocompany.co.uk Ian Gibbons said 'I think its a great idea to try to help Daniel out a bit. It's difficult enough for the family and Daniel to cope with his disability let alone the day to day movements we all take for granted. The Tamworth Panto Company is about making people smile in our community, albeit in a theatrical way. But if we can spread the smiles a little further, then that's even better. Let's roll!!' News flash **** Queen Cat has spread her magic - the date for the street collection is Saturday 12th July. So all those who want to get dressed up and help Daniel, contact us now. !!

OFFICIAL PHOTO LAUNCH FOR DICK WHITTINGTON

A first photo shoot took place on Sunday 1st June 2008 for the production of
Dick Whittington which will be performed at the Assembly Rooms in Tamworth in December.

Please go to The Gallery to see more of these fantastic photographs,
taken by professional photographer, Paul Claire.

OFFICIAL POSTER AND FLYERS LAUNCHED

Today we have unveilled the new poster and flyers for this years production of Dick Whittington. We will be producing 5000 full colour flyers and 200 full colour posters. We need saturation coverage throught the Tamworth area. Will all cast and crew members please start to approach outlets to place posters and flyers into. DO IT NOW!!! I think you will agree that this year poster is rather nice!! I did it so it should be purrrrfect

Queen Cat XX

ATTENTION EVERYONE!

All cast to attend the first read through of the Dick Whittington script on Sunday 30th March 2008 at Fazeley Town Hall, at 3pm. John Garforth has indicated that the whole thing is not set in stone yet, so the read through gives us all a chance to input. Although major re-writes will not be possible. Please would you let Tina know if you are unable to attend. If is vital that the whole cast and crew do their utmost to attend. We have just heard that Sleeping Beauty is coming back to haunt Dick. The latest news is that there is going to be yet another panto in the town. This time at the Palace Media Centre, they are planning to put on a production of SB so this mean we have to be all on our toes and let everyone know starting NOW that Dick Whittington is the panto to go to. In our opinion it beggars belief that there are now 3 Tamworth based panto's all after the same audiences. As they say, competition is good !!!! So all get your rattling heads on and let people know now about Dick.

Mayor of Fazeley's Variety Show
Helping the Community

SHOW PULLS OUT ALL THE STOPS FOR
MAYOR OF FAZELEY’S NOMINATED CHARITY

The Tamworth Pantomine Company has triumphed again with a great show. On Saturday night 8th March, The Town Hall at Fazeley was the venue that hosted the Mayor of Fazeley’s Variety Show, and it was packed to the rafters with a delighted audience who witnessed a most enjoyable show by the company. The show featured songs, dance, comedy, magic and showcased the wealth of talent the company has at its disposal.

Said delighted Mayor of Fazeley and Tamworth Panto Company Chairman, Lee Bates ‘The night was everything I had hoped for. The cast were fantastic, showing their usual enthusiasm and brilliance. I wasn’t sure how this production would transfer from the normal theatre setting into the town hall, but I think it worked extremely well. I am so proud of them all.’

For the second time in as many weeks, the Tamworth Panto Company has found itself in a position to be able to make a donation to a good cause. This time it was by means of a cheque presented to Lee by the company for £123 to go to his nominated charity for his mayoral year, the NSPCC.

Ian Gibbons commented ‘The artistic side of what the Tamworth Panto Company does, is the one of the most important things we look at, and I think the variety show proved without doubt what a vast wealth of young talent we have in Tamworth. We are there to help and try to develop youngsters and give them a foothold into performing arts. Equally important for us as a company is that we help charities and good causes in the area. I am delighted that within the space of two week we have handed out £300 to the Jollytotz Pre School, Leyfields and now this £123 to the local branch of the NSPCC.’
To see a review of the show, please go to the reviews page.

Our very own Victoria gets her own headline show at
The Candlelit Cabaret

THE CANDLELIT CABARET
ENGLISH ROSE SPECIAL, A ST. GEORGE’S CELEBRATION
IN THE COMPANY OF VICTORIA GORDON
FRIDAY 25TH APRIL 2008

The Candlelit Cabaret, Tamworth’s premier cabaret and dining experience, which caters for the discerning 40+ market is set to host a St. George’s Celebration on Friday 25th April at the Castle Hotel, Ladybank, Tamworth when the theme for the evening will be The English Rose Special, a St. George’s Celebration. An evening spotlighting two of the areas finest female vocalists.  The headliner of the show is 16 year old Victoria Gordon, who will be presenting two stunning sets of songs from the shows and classic hits from 4 decades.

Victoria will be joined by one of Tamworth’s top vocalist, Tina McBain and there will be an added bonus at this show as for the first time we are presenting some excellent close magic by local magician and performer Alex Farrell.  So there is something for everyone.

To compliment this show, there is a fantastic traditional English four course dinner to befit the occasion.

Said organiser Ian Gibbons ‘I cannot remember being as excited about a show for a long time as I am about this one.  Victoria Gordon has a talent rarely seen in one so young.  She has a beautiful, powerful voice.  I could not believe, when I first heard her, that she is only 16 because she possesses a very mature voice and sings with a style and artistry way beyond her years.  She can handle the gentle soothing ballads with such clarity and but is also no stranger to belting out the powerful pop classics.  I was hooked by her crystal clear voice.  I cannot remember anyone who has possessed such poise and determination to become a success.  I think she has a great future in the industry. I can guarantee a show that people will be wowed by.’

Victoria Gordon is no stranger to the big occasion. She recently turned in a stunning performance as Sleeping Beauty in the Assembly Rooms and has been successful in various midlands talent competitions over the past years, but this is her first major headlining show at the much talked about Candlelit Cabaret.

Compere for the Candlelit Cabaret, Tina McBain said ‘On this occasion I think it will be an honour for me to play second fiddle to Victoria.  She has a wonderful pure voice, delivering her songs with feeling and depth.  She has a great stage presence.  For one so young she has perfected a lovely set of material and I am really looking forward to working with her.  Another pleaser for me is the fantastic talent of Alex Farrell who will be performing his close magic at the tables during the evening.  Alex also is no stranger to performing, having recently appeared in theatre productions at the Alexander Theatre in Birmingham and Tamworth.’

The staff at the Castle Hotel ensure the setting is perfect for the show; intimate candle lit tables and excellent service. This is cabaret at its finest with something for everyone.  The four course dinner which is served at 8pm is wonderfully presented and is the perfect start to this great evenings entertainment.

Tickets for this spectacular show are priced £22.50 and include a 4 course dinner. Doors open at 7.15pm, dinner is at 8pm and the cabaret starts at 9.00pm. To book your tickets, telephone the Castle Hotel 01827 317700 ~ credit cards accepted.

LOCAL PANTO SUPPORTS LOCAL GROUP

The final task of Tamworth Pantomime Company’s 2007 production of Sleeping Beauty took place this week when two of the cast members; Ian Gibbons and Terry Batham dropped by to the Jollytotz pre-school on Masefield Drive, Leyfields to present the Manager, Tracey Whitehouse with a £300 cheque as a donation for the nursery.

Said Tamworth Pantomime Company Treasurer Terry Batham ‘Supporting local groups wherever we can is an important part of what the Tamworth Pantomime Company is about. We like to be involved in the community and we are keen to support smaller groups and good causes as they sometimes get overlooked. As Sleeping Beauty was our first production, we had no idea how much we would be able to hand over, but we were delighted to be in a position to donate this £300.’

Jollytotz Manager, Tracey Whitehouse said ‘I cannot thank the Tamworth Pantomime Company enough. It’s always difficult to raise funds to constantly maintain and add to the equipment for the pre-school group and this donation will be put to great use.’

The Pantomime Company are now looking ahead to this years production of Dick Whittington which will be staged at the Assembly Rooms in December and they would like to hear from any local good causes or individuals that may feel they fall into the category of receiving a donation from the 2008 production.

Pantomine Company committee member Ian Gibbons said ‘Hopefully as we get more established we will be able to increase the amounts we donate each year. But what we like to do is to pick one recipient each year to try to make a little difference. There are so many good causes out there, and it’s difficult to choose, but we feel that causes that involve children or the elderly are the ones most likely to benefit from out support.’

You can contact The Tamworth Pantomime Company with reasons why you should be considered for future donations by emailing tina@tamworthpantocompany.co.uk

DATES ANNOUNCED FOR DICK WHITTINGTON 2008

The dates are now confirmed for this years panto, Dick Whittington which will take place at Tamworth Assembly Rooms in December. We are please to announce that we are holding last years ticket prices and tickets will go on sale from the Tourist Information Centre, Tamworth from 1st August 2008.



Monday December 8th 2008 - Get In and Dress Rehearsal

Tuesday December 9th 2008 - matinee and evening

Thursday December 11th 2008 -matinee and evening

Friday December 12th 2008 - matinee and evening

Saturday December 13th 2008 - matinee and evening

Sunday December 14th 2008 - 5pm performance

THE MAYOR OF FAZELEY'S VARIETY SHOW

We are delighted to confirm that the Mayor of Fazeley's Variety Show is now set to take place early March. So far we have a few acts who have contacted us wishing to take part, but there are still some places available to show off your talents. If you would like to take part, please contact Tina on 07908 695543. Tickets will be on sale from Monday 14th January at the Tourist Information Centre in Market Street, Tamworth.
See below for further details.

Date	Saturday 8th March 2008
Venue	Fazeley Town Hall
Billing To include	Andy Pandy & Looby Loo Glen Chevannes Victoria Gordon Laura Doyle Tina McBain Steps Dance Studio Magician Alex and his glamorous Assistant Emily plus more to be announced
Times:	Doors open 7:00 pm Concert Starts at 7:30pm
Tickets:	There are only 100 tickets available for this performance £6 & £4 concessions from Tamworth Tourist Information Centre, Market Street, Tamworth 01827 709618

Tickets have gone on sale at the Tourist Information centre in Tamworth this week for the Mayor of Fazeley’s first Variety Show which is to be held on Saturday 8 th March 2008 at the Fazeley Town Hall starting at 7.30pm.

The delighted Mayor of Fazeley, Cllr Lee Bates said ‘I am really pleased with the way things are shaping up. We have a first class line up of talent with some of the best local artist including Glen Chevannes and Victoria Gordon. Also I am so pleased that Tina McBain has agreed to do a short set of songs. I saw her performing her Christmas Concert at Middleton Hall with Phil Bates last December and I was blown away. I hadn’t realized just how good she is. I think we are in for a fantastic evening, with showstopping dancing, comedy and a general feel good factor from many of the cast of the Tamworth Pantomime Company and other local talent from the area.’

The full lineup for the show is not yet finalized, but there are some great additions and the group is delighted at the response. But for those who are thinking of maybe getting involved, its not too late as there will be future shows for their talents to shine at.

Lee, who is the Chairman of the Tamworth Pantomime Company continued ‘I am particularly keen to hear from any talented senior citizens. A few years ago there was a big Assembly Rooms show that featured many great mature performers and I remember how good it was and we would dearly love to feature this genre in the variety shows in the future as well as this one.’

‘The whole idea of me staging this show in conjuction with the Tamworth Pantomime Company is that we scour the area and bring on new talent who could possibly become involved with the annual panto staged at the Assembly Rooms. And of course we are hoping to raise funds for the Town Hall as a thank you to them for their kind assistance with the rehearsal space when we were preparing for the panto last year. Without their valued contribution, I don’t think it would have been quite the success it was. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the show will be a compete sell out. So do try to come along, I can guarantee a great night.’

’Anyone who wishes to contact us regarding any aspects of the show or the Tamworth Pantomime Company can contact us through the website www.tamworthpantocompany.co.uk or by telelephoning our Secretary on 07908 695543.’

THE CANDLELIT CABARET
CASTLE HOTEL SET FOR SONG AND DANCE SPECTACULAR

Although this is not strictly a TPC promotion, Ian, Tina and Glen would be
delighted to see some of the Panto Company at this excellent show
at the Candlelit cabaret on 25th January.

This is the 3rd year Glen and the girls have presented this show for the candlelit cabaret and on each ocassion it has been a complete sell out. The meal is top class and the enterainment is fab.

Please see below for details.

Date:	Friday 25th January 2008
Venue:	The Candlelit Cabaret at the Castle Hotel, Ladybank, Tamworth
Billing:	Glen Chevannes and His Glamorous Dancers, with 4 course dinner
Times:	Doors Open: 7.15pm ~ Dinner 8.00pm ~ Show starts: 9.00pm
Tickets:	£23.50 from The Castle Hotel, Tamworth, 01827 317700 - credit card bookings accepted

One of Tamworth 's best-known theatre faces is busy preparing for his own show at the Candlelit Cabaret. Singer Glen Chevannes, who uses the stage name Glen Chevannes, is all set to perform on Friday 25th January at The Castle Hotel. This will be Glen's third year in the January Candelit Cabaret spot and this wonderful entertainer holds the record for the quickest sell outs at the cabaret nights.

Well know for his leading parts in panto in the town, Glen has played leading man in no less than 14 different pantos at the Tamworth Assembly Rooms including the role of ‘Prince William' in this last years panto ‘Sleeping Beauty'. Before getting involved in the local arts scene, Glen worked as a singer for Thomson Holidays and has performed in cabaret at resorts including Tenerife , Tunisia , Majorca and Florida . Now settled back in Tamworth , he continues to perform professionally, by invitation, and teaches fitness classes in the area as well as his full time work.

The show will see Glen, who lives in Glascote Road , perform material from a 300-song repertoire including pop songs, ballads and showstoppers. He will be joined by his glamorous dancers Anna Deeming and Gemma Harper, who have worked professionally with Glen all over the midlands as the song and dance cabaret troupe ‘Eclipse'.

“Performing is in my blood” said Glen. “When I sing, I come from a place of truth and pure feeling. It's not an intellectual thing; it comes from the soul, the gut, from the heart and from the mind”. The show will feature over 30 songs and some of the most glamorous costumes ever seen in the town.

Tickets available from The Castle Hotel Reception
Telephone: 01827 317700 - credit card bookings accepted

Fax: 01827 54303

Address:
The Castle Hotel, Ladybank, Tamworth, B79 7NB

MEETING TO BE HELD ON MONDAY 7TH JANUARY

Happy new year to you all, we are having a meeting next Monday 7th Jan at the Castle Hotel at 7.30pm to discuss things past present and future, would be good if as many of you could be there as possible and we need input from everyone. Remember Panto isnt just for Christmas. xx toodle pip xx

THE MAJOR OF FAZELEY IS SEARCHING FOR
TALENT FOR HIS VARIETY SHOW

Only two weeks has elapsed since the curtain fell on the Tamworth Pantomime Company’s well received production of Sleeping Beauty at the Tamworth assembly Rooms, but already the task of raising much needed finance to stage 2008’s production of Dick Whittington has begun.

This week, Tamworth Panto Company Chairman and Mayor of Fazeley, Lee Bates is sending out an invitation for those who think they have the X, Y and Z factor to contact him for consideration for a slot at the Mayor of Fazeley’s Variety show which will be staged in the early Spring at Fazeley Town Hall.

Lee, who played the Good Fairy Rachel in Sleeping Beauty to great acclaim, said ‘The variety show will serve three purposes. Firstly, it’s a fun way to raise some of the money for future pantomimes, secondly it’s a great platform for us to discover new talent, and thirdly we are hoping to raise a little money for good causes in the town. We are staging a good old fashioned variety show so therefore we are looking for acts of all types, and all ages; singers, dancers and specialty acts. I am amazed at the wealth of young talent we have in this town. Anyone who witnessed the panto will agree that the dancers and the youngsters in the cast were nothing short of superb. But we want to encourage more youngsters to be involved and I must stress panto is not just for Christmas, we are looking to develop a junior section in the near future. But don’t let age put you off, if you are a performer regardless of age, please get in touch, we would be delighted to hear from any theatrical senior citizens. In short, if you have talent, we want to know.’

Already Lee has drawn up a list performers who have agreed to take part including Victoria Gordon who has wowed audiences with her excellent singing talent, well known local performer Tina McBain, Mr. Song and Dance Man Glen Chevannes and various members of the Steps Dance Studio will be showing off their dancing and acrobatic skills. But there are many more spaces to fill. So if you can entertain and would like to be involved, please call Tina on 07908 695543 or contact us via this website www.tamworthpantocompany.co.uk

Sleeping Beauty Reviews are now open for viewing

Sleeping Beauty is now well and truly is now in the land of Nod. Put away for the next 100 years. If you want to see what the Tina thought, have a read, but make a cuppa first as it takes a while to read it all.

Don't forget everyone, the work for Dick Whittington has already started and all you talented people need to start thinking about the variety show we are putting together.

The Mayor of Fazeley's
Pantomime Concert Variety Show



Date to be advised, will be early 2008

This event will be a cabaret variety show, featuring songs, dance and sketches. A donation from ticket sales will go to the Fazeley Town Council as a thank you for their support of the Tamworth Pantomime Company's production of Sleeping Beauty.

Any artists who would like to be involved in this show, please contact
Tina asap on 07908 695543.



EARLY CHRISTMAS SURPRISE FOR
NEW PANTO COMPANY

The cast members of the new Tamworth Pantomime Company whose production of Sleeping Beauty opens Thursday 13th December at the Tamworth Assembly Rooms and runs till Sunday 16th, were celebrating the news that they are to receive and early Christmas present, courtesy of Staffordshire County Councillor John Garforth, who has awarded the group a grant of £1000 from the County Council’s Local Members Initiative Scheme.

Councillor Garforth commented ‘I have been really impressed with the hard work and dedication that everyone involved with the Tamworth Pantomime Company has shown. Getting a brand new
company off the ground and established is a huge task, but as members of the public will see this weekend, they have done a first class job. It is most pleasing that Tamworth’s tradition of a locally produced pantomime using local actors, dancers and stage crew is set to continue.’

Tamworth Pantomime Company Chairman, Lee Bates said ‘Councillor Garforth’s award of the £1000 grant will go towards the costs of scenery and insurances. It couldn’t have come at a better time, we are really delighted that Cllr. Garforth and the County Council have recognised the value of this new company and the hard work put in by so many people. We hope to see many of our friends old and new at the performances this weekend.’

Tamworth Herald feature 29.11.07
Tamworths new Panto Gang are
set to take the stage


Panto season is upon us and Tamworth's newly formed Panto Company is eager to make a big impression. The company's debut production is Sleeping Beauty. Many familiar faces are cast in the leading roles and are looking forward to entertaining young and old.

Fancy Partying - Then Why Not Visit Missfits

The Tamworth Pantomime Company are pleased to be associated
with Missfits Costume Hire and Creation specialists based in Glascote, Tamworth.
Proprietor Debbie Murphy has a most wonderful talent and has so far supplied
costumes for Simple Simon, Nanny Moneypenny, King Bentley & Queen Portia,
Ghasthag and The Ferrocious Bear. We can thoroughly recommend Missfits
for all your costume and fancy dress requirements, you will receive a top rate
service from a very experienced and talented lady.

MissFit Costumes is a full-time fancy dress & costume hire business specialising in on-site costume design, creation and alteration. MissFit Costumes is situated at the bottom of the Glascote Road (B5000) just around the corner from Blythe Street (where Tamworth Post Office sorting depot is). We are a home run business and work by appointment only in order to guarantee our customers one to one personal service.  Appointments can last up to one hour allowing time to view costumes of choice from our extensive range and try outfits on in complete privacy. Appointments can be made between the hours of 9am - 5pm daily (alternate Sundays are avalable)   Evening appointments are taken from 6pm - 8.30pm Mon - Fri To book your appointment please call Debbie on 07843090684 alternatively email your enquiry to info@missfitcreations.com Here at MissFit you can be assured of our full attention to your costume requirements and fitting.  Outfits can be tried on without interuption.  On-site minor alterations can be made at time of hire to ensure you feel and look your best in your chosen costume. We cater for fuller figures, specialising in a 'Full Cut' range with sizes; Ladies 16-20  Gents 44"-50" + a range of made to measure costumes up to a size Ladies 26"  Gents 54" We will shortly be selling a range of original MissFit Costumes as well as ex-hire stock from this site. With hundreds of costumes to choose from, constantly updated and improved stock and in house alteration and design we cannot be beaten for choice or quality. For more information or to book costumes please do not hesitate to call.

SWITCH ON SUCCESS

Tina and Ian would like to thank all those who braved the cold on Friday 23rd November and helped with the switching on of the towns Christmas Lights in St. Editha's. The event went to plan, and our part of the proceedings was extremely well received by the public. Hopefully we will be invited back next year to promote Dick Whittington.

Tamworth Times feature 22nd November 2007

SIMPLE SIMON LIVES UP TO HIS NAME

Tamworth Pantomime Company Chairman, Tamworth Borough Councillor Lee Bates is this week appealing to residents of the town to come to the rescue of the towns annual pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, which runs from Thursday 13 th December to Sunday 16 th December at the Tamworth Assembly Rooms, after chaotic calamity struck the production at the hands of one of its most senior members. Lee explains ‘ We are now looking for a replacement spinning wheel after well known local actor Ian Gibbons got himself in a proper mess last week. The star prop for the production is of course the spinning wheel which Beauty pricks her finger on; I sourced and won real beauty on Ebay and we were all very excited that we had found a genuine article. So saving costs and time, Ian offered to go and collect it from Manchester and that’s where the pantomime antics really began and he really lived up to his alter ego, Simple Simon. On the way home he stopped at a motorway services for a cup of tea and for security purposes took the prized possession into the services. After chatting to a fellow diner for a while, Ian got up, suitably refreshed and left the services. When he arrived back in Tamworth, he remembered the spinning wheel. You couldn’t write this could you !! ?? The spinning wheel of course was not there when we rang the service area. Ian has been in the dog house ever since. He is mortified, but its hard to be angry with him for too long as he is such a lovable chap. ‘

We are now scouring the town trying to beg, steel or borrow a spinning wheel for the pantomime production. We realise that people having just read this, may be reluctant to lend us their treasures, but we can assure them that Simple Simon as he is now called full time, will not be allowed anywhere near the props room again. Plus we have just taken out excellent insurance for the company.’

We are pleased to announce that since this story appeared in the local press, Simon has been reprieved as we have acquired the use of a lovely Spinning Wheel from a kind ebayer from Water Orton. So there is no need to pelt Simon with rotten tomatoes if you should see him in the street.

Prince William and Princess Beauty set to wow crowds at
Christmas Lights Switch on event on 23rd November

FAVOURITE RETURNS FOR PANTO
Tamworth Times 1st November 2007

One of Tamworth 's best-known theatre faces is busy preparing for his annual soiree to pantoland, when he takes the role once again as the Prince, in this years production of Sleeping Beauty at the Tamworth Assembly Rooms.

Well know for his leading parts in pantos in the town for many years, Glen has played leading man in no less than 14 different productions at the Tamworth Assembly Rooms including the role of ‘Prince Michael' in this last years panto ‘Snow White'. This year will see our hero rescuing the stricken Princess Beauty from the hands of the evil Ghasthag. Before getting involved in the local arts scene, Glen worked as a professional singer for Thomson Holidays and has performed in cabaret at resorts including Tenerife, Tunisia, Majorca and Florida . Now settled back in Tamworth, he continues to perform professionally, by invitation, and teaches fitness classes in the area whilst working as Assistant Recruitment Manager for Birmingham City Council.

“Performing is in my blood” said Glen. “Pantomime is such a fantastic British tradition, it is probably the first experience many children have of theatre, all the excitement of a wonderful story, good over evil and the fun and slapstick that we associate with panto is of course present in this years production.'

Glen is also one of the most popular local songsmiths, with a repertoire of over 300 songs, he incorporates his fantastic vocal ability into the pantomime. He continued ‘When I sing, I come from a place of truth and pure feeling. It's not an intellectual thing; it comes from the soul, the gut, from the heart and from the mind. I must confess it has been an honour and an pleasure to be Tamworth 's leading man for so long, and it is a role I do not take lightly, having fun is a serious business. This years cast for Sleeping Beauty in my opinion is one of the strongest for a long time and I am thrilled to be working along side such vocal talents as the excellent Vikki Gordon and of course Tina McBain, who is one of the area's leading female vocalists as well as a vocal coach, which always keeps me on my toes.'

Monday 15th October 2007

This years Production official launched at Tamworth Castle

SLEEPING BEAUTY WILL CAST A MAGICAL SPELL
OVER TAMWORTH THIS CHRISTMAS

Wakey, Wakey! It's Panto time again in Tamworth , Oh yes it is! Christmas just wouldn't be the same without the towns' annual festive production at the Assembly Rooms! The Tamworth Pantomime Company in partnership with Tamworth Borough Council, is proud to announce this year's Christmas spectacular, Sleeping Beauty, which runs from Thursday 13 th December to Sunday 16 th December.

Sleeping Beauty tells the tale of a beautiful Princess (played by the talented local starlet Vikki Gordon (16), who for the second year running has made the title role her own after a sensational debut last year as Snow White) who is placed under a spell at her christening by a wicked fairy Ghasthag (played by the incomparable baddy Terry Batham), who has been overlooked on the invite list. The Bad Fairy says that on reaching adulthood, the Princess will prick her finger on a spindle and die. The Good Fairy, Rachel (local councillor and Mayor of Fazeley, Lee Bates), though unable to completely reverse the spell, says the Princess will instead sleep for a hundred years until awakened by the kiss of handsome Prince William (Glen Chevannes, the towns best loved song and dance man, who has been wowing audiences in pantomime for many years). The supporting cast boasts a rich vein of talent and includes well known actress and vocalist Tina McBain as the mad Scottish Nanny Moneypenny, cheeky chappy Ian Gibbons as Simple Simon and professional actor and production Director Adam Cukrowski as the bumbling Lord Rupert.

Audiences will be treated to a visual spectacular with stunning dance routines courtesy of the Steps Dance Studio, and sumptuous costumes, as well as singalong songs, fun frolics and audience participation and the usual madcap antics you would expect from the panto tradition.

Tamworth Pantomime Company Chairman, Lee Bates said ‘We are really excited about this production, Tamworth audiences have been supporting panto at the Assembly Rooms for many years, and our new company looks forward to seeing friends old and new this year to welcome the new company. I think I can safely say that the future of panto in Tamworth is in safe hands. Also I firmly believe that audiences are in for a real family treat, as Sleeping Beauty is such a fantastic tale of good over evil, a true love story. We have been having such great fun rehearsing this production and this will be self evident when the run begins. Check the website for further details www.tamworthpantocompany.co.uk'

Don't get caught napping with Princess Beauty this Christmas – book your tickets now for a fantastic, family, festive treat!

Saturday 1st September 2007

A BIT OF FORWARD PLANNING!!

We are pleased to announce that professional playwright and author, John Garforth has begun work on our first bespoke script for next years production which will be Dick Whittington. Eventually we are hoping that John will produce a series of our very own panto scripts.

Monday 27th August 2007

WE HAVE FOUND THE PERFECT DUO

Following a press article in the Tamworth Herald, we are happy to report that we
have now cast the King and Queen of Remania. Lynda Jackson and Eamonn Burns
will be taking to the stage with the Company and are both rather excited
at the prospect. Welcome aboard both!!

Thursday 23rd August 2007

PRINCESS SLEEPING BEAUTY IN SEARCH OF ROYAL PLAYERS

The Tamworth Pantomime Company is all set to commence rehearsals from Sunday 2nd September for this years production of Sleeping Beauty. The new company is delighted with the response and have cast all of the principal roles with the exception of two main characters; the King and Queen of Remania, (mother and father of the Princess Beauty, played by Vikki Gordon).

We are delighted to have secured a really strong cast for the panto, and equally are looking forward to starting rehearsals. There is a lot of hard work ahead. But, the missing characters are vital so we are holding final auditions to locate suitable players for these roles. Ideally we are looking for male/female adult actors for these parts. The roles have comic content and will be most enjoyable to play, they really are excellent roles. The actors would need to be available for rehearsals every Sunday afternoon from 3pm ‘til 6pm from 2nd September, until production which starts with the dress rehearsal on 12th December.'

If anyone feels they would like to tread the boards with us this year, would they please contact Tina on 07908 695543 now when we can discuss auditions.

Monday 20th August 2007

TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR SLEEPING BEAUTY

Tickets for Sleeping Beauty are now on sale at the Tourist Information Centre,
Market Street, Tamworth 01827 709618. Credit cards accepted.

Ticket Prices are:

Adults: £9.00
Children and Concs: £6.00
Family Tickets (2 adults, 2 children) £26.00
Party bookings (schools, brownies, cubs etc) £5.00
There is also a special snack box ticket available for the
children at a cost of an additional £1. Please book this when booking your tickets.

Friday 10th August 2007

Fundraising

Like Old Mother Hubbard's proverbial cupboard, our is bare too. Fundraising is vital. We all need to be helping out in raising the cash we need to put on this years production. We are submitting an application to Tamworth Borough Council for funding under grants for Voluntary Organisations Scheme. The board dealing this will be considering our application in October. This grant scheme usually gives small grants up to £500. Footy Crazy, Football Mad We have purchased a batch of football team fundraising cards, 60 team spaces per card. All you need to do is to get your friends, family, workmates to pick their favourite team for £1.00 a go. The person who picks the winning team will receive 50% of the card value (winning £30), the remainder will be put into the Tamworth pantomime Company fund. We are hoping that many of the cast and crew will take a card and start selling between now and when we start rehearsals on 2nd September. If we only fill 20 cards between us it would give us £600, to help us purchase backcloths. To get a card, call Tina on 07908 695543 or leave us a message on the guestbook and we will get a card to you.

Thursday 9th August

A coup for the Tamworth Pantomime Company

A major plus for the company is that professional playwright and author
John Garforth has agreed to join the team. John's role for the foreseeable future
will be in the background as he begins to get to know the cast and crew and their characters and skills for future productions. John will be writing and co-directing orginal scripts for future productions. So having our own scripts will be a great bonus for us.

John is a writer of some note, having scribed The Avengers and The Champions
novels and he has written 14 plays and three pantomimes; Ali Baba and the
Forty Thieves, Robin Hood and Jack & The Beansalk,
which have all been performed in the local area.

Tuesday 7th August 2007

STEPS DANCE STUDIO ON BOARD

We are delighted to announce that we have the excellent services of The Steps Dance Studio for this years production of Sleeping Beauty. The group will add lustre and glamour to the panto with their fantastic dances and acrobatics. Proprietor of Steps, Julie Eccles said 'We at Steps are really thrilled to be involved with the new company from the very start. I am looking forward to working with friends old and new.

Monday 6th August 2007

Monday 9th July 2007

Chairman Appointed



Popular local and loveable Tamworth Borough Councillor Lee Bates has been appointed the first Chairman of the Tamworth Pantomime Company. Lee, who is relatively new to the panto scene, said 'I am delighted to have been there at the inception of this new group. There will be some hard work ahead and some very rewarding results. It is vital that Tamworth has its own pantomime using local talent and The Tamworth Pantomime Company is the perfect vehicle for this.



It's Sleeping Beauty for 2007

The Tamworth Pantomime Group has announced that this years production at the Assembly Rooms will be a traditional family pantomime; Sleeping Beauty. The 2 hour panto had been written by professional writer Richard Lovelock and the Director for this production is professional actor Adam Spears.



Junior Chorus Wanted for Sleeping Beauty

We are currently looking for around 12 youngsters to take part in
this years production which will take place at the Assembly
Rooms from 13th to 15th December. So if you fancy playing a ghost, ghoulie, a grizzly bear then please get in touch with us on the telephone number below, or email us with your details.



Friday 20th July 2007

Panto Company Cement Deal with Borough Council

The Tamworth Pantomime Company were celebrating the news today that an agreement has been reached between the group and the Borough Council to present a family pantomime at the Assembly Rooms in December. Founder member Terry Batham said 'This is a fatastic agreement, we are all really pleased that Tamworth Borough
Council can see the potential in working along side of our new
company and that we have preserved the tradition of a locally
based pantomine at the Assembly Rooms.



If you are interested in joining the Tamworth Pantomime Company in any capacity you feel you would enjoy, please don't hesitate to contact us by email



or telephone

Tina Gibbons, Secretary on 07908 695543