FOR four nights last week the village hall was packed as Ugborough Dramatic Society presented its first thespian venture, Alan Frayne’s pantomime ‘Cinderella’.

The society was formed last spring with keen but mostly inexperienced actors and crew, and its evolution has been a consequence of sheer hard work and determination.

Taking the leading role, Norma Roe set the standard, and a multitude of hidden talents emerged as rehearsals progressed.

The Ugly Sisters, Sharon Hughes and Maggie Barker had the audience in gales of laughter with their ridiculous antics in their quest to trap the Prince portrayed by Stephen Fletcher.

David Gwynne as the loveable Buttons played the link man with the Baron, John Watkins and impossibly superior Baroness, Claire Hobart. Bev Henry’s black fairy with the Yorkshire accent was a favourite, and Susan Willams’ Dandini was the perfect sidekick to the Prince.

The slapstick was provided by rogue builders Bodget and Leggit aka Steve Hughes and Anne-Marie Bulgen, while Ann Steer played the much maligned Chambers.

The chorus of eight willing volunteers surprised themselves with their hitherto unknown skills in the performing arts and sang brilliantly, while local youngsters provided the cute animal effect.

The stage and set was a true community effort, expertly managed by Vici Hemmings whose imagination and ingenuity set the scenes. Dress and makeup were also provided by local experts, and Kim Soloman, assisted by Steve Hughes, provided superb lighting effects with equipment largely financed by a discretionary grant from South Hams Council.

Thanks to Lynsey Hughes’ prowess on flute and piano, and impeccable timing with sound effects, the performances were seamless.

The event was strongly supported by local community groups – in particular Ugborough Village hall Committee, Ugborough & Bittaford Preschool, which willingly vacated the hall for a week, and Ugborough School, which accommodated them.

The show was directed and produced by Sue Johns, ably assisted by Helen Hart.