Comedy Double Bill – Mint Theatre Society ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Charity Begins At Home / All By Myself – Mint Theatre Socirty

Stonnall Village Hall

Sunday 29th March 2026 – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

Big Laughs, Brilliant Performances: A Comedy Double Bill That Delivers

An evening of sharp comedy and thoughtful storytelling takes centre stage with this entertaining double bill from the The Mint Theatre Society, featuring “Charity Begins at Home” by Mark Whitely and “All by Myself” by Robert Scott.

Opening the night, Charity Begins at Home transports us to a charity shop in 2007, where everyday interactions quickly spiral into something far more chaotic and hilarious. The strength of this piece lies in its sharp, witty dialogue and a cast that clearly relishes every moment.

Charlotte Ball as Joyce anchors the piece beautifully, delivering a performance full of timing and character, while Andrew Huches (Burt) and Paul Warner (Bungo) bring a wonderful energy and comedic rhythm to the stage. David Daly’s Mac Man adds another layer of humour, complemented by Beth Howell as the Policewoman, whose presence lands perfectly within the escalating madness. A clever additional touch comes from the voice work of Toby Cuiver Wells, adding depth to the storytelling.

In contrast, All by Myself shifts tone and setting entirely—placing us on a desert island in 1567—but retains that all-important comedic edge. Here, the humour is more reflective, with moments of genuine warmth woven through the script.

Alex Howell leads confidently as Larry, supported by strong performances from David Daly (Pemberton) and Gareth Austin (Ashworth), each bringing distinct characterisation and presence. Beth Howell once again impresses with versatility as Miller, while Ian Toulouse (Nicholson) adds further texture to an already well-balanced ensemble.

Under the direction of Liz Daly, both productions feel cohesive yet distinct, showcasing an understanding of pacing, tone, and character that keeps the audience engaged throughout. Behind the scenes, David Daly (Stage Manager) ensures a smooth production, with Ellie Ball providing effective sound design that enhances each setting. Front of house, Michelle Warner and Alexandra Warner complete the experience with a warm welcome for audiences.

This double bill is a fantastic example of what local theatre does best—bringing together strong writing, committed performances, and a clear love for the craft. Two very different stories, one thoroughly enjoyable evening.

11, 17 & 18 April

Boldmere / Aldridge / Stonnall

7:30pm (doors open at 7pm)

ticketsource.co.uk/mint-theatre-society

The Hills Of California – Sutton Arts Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hills Of California – Sutton Arts Theatre

Sutton Arts Theatre

Thursday 19th March 2026 – Opening Night

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Sutton Arts Theatre

Set against the backdrop of Blackpool during the long, hot summer of 1976, The Hills of California at Sutton Arts Theatre is a richly atmospheric and emotionally charged production that explores the complexities of family, memory, and long-buried truths.

Written by Jez Butterworth and directed by Emily Armstrong, the play centres on the Webb sisters, who reunite at their childhood home — the fading Sea View Guest House — to say goodbye to their ailing mother. What unfolds is a deeply layered story that moves between timelines, revealing their earlier lives in the 1950s, when dreams of stardom first began to take shape.

This production captures the essence of Butterworth’s writing beautifully — sharp, evocative, and often laced with dark humour. The dialogue feels natural and lived-in, allowing the emotional weight of the story to unfold gradually but powerfully.

The performances across the board are strong and committed. Phoebe Bland (Jillian) leads with sensitivity and presence, supported by Ashleigh Thomas (Penny/Diddy), Michelle Dawes (Ruby), and Nancy Wright (Patty/Mrs Smith), who together create a believable and emotionally layered portrayal of sisterhood.

There are excellent supporting turns throughout, with Connor Taylor (Tony/Mr Smith), Laura Hinton (Gloria), and Mike Rawson (Bill/Mr Halliwell) adding depth and texture to the story, while Rich Millward (Dennis/Jack Larkin) brings a grounded, engaging presence. The younger cast — Sophia Mae Firkins, Gracie Reynolds, Marnie Brown, and Ava Cattell — provide convincing and poignant glimpses into the sisters’ past, helping to anchor the narrative’s shifting timelines.

Special mention also goes to Tom Brookes (Joe Fogg), Emily Armstrong (Veronica/Joan), and Ian Eaton (Luther), who all contribute to a well-balanced and energetic cast.

Behind the scenes, this is clearly a production built on strong collaboration. Director Emily Armstrong guides the piece with a confident and sensitive hand, supported by Tom Brookes (Musical Direction) and Jannie Henderson (Choreography), whose contributions subtly enhance the storytelling.

The technical elements are equally effective. Set design by Mark Nattrass creates an intimate and believable setting, while lighting and sound design from David Ashton & Emily Armstrong, alongside Kieran Jenkins (Lighting Operation) and Elijah Topliss, Annabelle Trappett & Joe Apted (Sound Operation), help shape the mood and transitions with precision. Costume design from Emily Armstrong & Phebe Bland, supported by Sutton Arts Wardrobe & Lichfield Costume Hire, adds authenticity to the shifting eras.

At its core, The Hills of California is a story about the ties that shape us — family, ambition, and the echoes of choices made long ago. This Sutton Arts Theatre production delivers that story with honesty, warmth, and emotional depth.

⭐ Running 19th – 28th March 2026 at Sutton Arts Theatre

For tickets click Here

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs – Cloc MTC ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs – Cloc MTC

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday 2nd February – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

From the moment the curtain rises, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs proves once again why panto remains such a beloved theatrical tradition — and CLOC Musical Theatre Company deliver it with confidence, colour and a generous helping of warmth.

This is a lively, family-friendly production packed with playful humour, strong character work and an infectious sense of fun that clearly delighted audiences of all ages. The show balances classic pantomime conventions with plenty of modern sparkle, creating an experience that feels both comforting and fresh.

At the heart of the production is Lily Clements, who brings sincerity and charm to Snow White. Her performance is engaging and natural, grounding the story beautifully amid the chaos and comedy that swirl around her. Opposite her, Erin Mooney as Prince Ferdinand offers a confident and likeable presence, giving the central love story a gentle, believable warmth.

Comedy is very much at the forefront, and Krystian Wharton is a joy as Edna Bucket — commanding the stage with impeccable timing, knowing glances to the audience and a wonderfully playful rapport that keeps the laughs coming thick and fast. Stephen Whittick’s Grumbly adds another layer of humour, delivering his lines with just the right blend of gruffness and heart.

The supporting cast bring the fairy-tale world vividly to life. Alex Nash (Merlin), Paige Howen (Queen Avarice) and Sophia Powers (Fairy Fortune) each carve out distinctive characters, helping to shape the story and guide the audience through the twists and turns of the plot. Queen Avarice in particular strikes an excellent balance between theatrical villainy and pantomime exaggeration, earning both boos and laughs in equal measure.

The ensemble work is a real highlight. The dwarfs — Smiley (Mia Dorey), Sniffles (Lukas Wharton), Dozy (Lizzy Small), Brainy (Eloise Tanley) and Snoozy (Aine Shirley) — are full of energy and personality, working together with great chemistry and confidence. Their scenes are among the most engaging in the show, drawing big reactions from the audience.

Visually, the production is bright and welcoming, with vibrant backdrops, themed character imagery and a strong sense of cohesion across the staging. It’s clear a great deal of care has gone into presentation, helping to create a magical atmosphere that supports the storytelling rather than overpowering it.

Behind the scenes, the production team provide a strong and steady foundation for the show. Producer Teresa Biddell clearly leads with care and commitment, bringing together a production that feels cohesive, polished and full of heart. Sharon Wharton’s choreography is lively and well suited to pantomime, making excellent use of the ensemble and keeping the action flowing smoothly across the stage. Musical direction from John Jones supports the performances confidently, while Paul Douglass as prompt ensures the show runs seamlessly. Together, the team create an environment where cast and creativity can truly shine.

Above all, this is a production that radiates community spirit. The commitment and enthusiasm of the cast and production team shine through, reminding us that pantomime is at its best when it’s rooted in joy, inclusivity and shared laughter.

CLOC Musical Theatre Company’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a charming, energetic and thoroughly enjoyable festive treat — perfect for families, first-time theatre-goers and seasoned panto fans alike.

A Kick In The Baubles – Sutton Arts Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Kick In The Baubles – Sutton Arts Theatre

Sutton Arts Theatre

Wednesday 28th January 2026 – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

A Kick in the Baubles is festive farce at its most relatable — a sharp, affectionate comedy that finds big laughs in the chaos, compromises and quiet catastrophes of Christmas with family.

Set across Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in the Bauble household, the play centres on Frank Bauble (Andy Jones), a man who would happily cancel Christmas altogether if given half the chance. Recently made redundant and utterly worn down by the season, Frank’s dream of a calm, uneventful holiday is immediately crushed by the arrival of relatives, neighbours and well-meaning disasters. His long-suffering wife Jean (Joanne James) is determined to hold everything together — even as it becomes increasingly clear that “together” is a very loose concept indeed.

Andy Jones delivers a wonderfully grounded performance as Frank, capturing both his simmering frustration and reluctant vulnerability. He is matched beautifully by Joanne James, whose Jean balances warmth, steel and perfectly timed exasperation — the emotional anchor of the household as everything spins out of control.

The extended family bring the chaos in waves. Harry and Doreen (Phil Shaw and Lynette Coffey) provide deliciously smug comedy as the superior, slightly unbearable in-laws, with Coffey in particular leaning confidently into Doreen’s sharp tongue and self-importance. Alex (Sophia Firkins) adds youthful edge and energy, playing off the older characters with ease.

The arrival of the neighbours injects the production with an extra jolt of festive madness. Gary (Dan Holyhead) and Julie (Bexs Perry) are gloriously loud, unapologetically chaotic and clearly enjoying every moment — their scenes are packed with physical comedy and bold character choices that land strongly with the audience.

Younger cast members Milly (Tilde Porter) and Darren (Daniel Charlton) round out the ensemble with charm and clarity, ensuring that even at its busiest moments the stage never feels overcrowded or unfocused.

Under the confident direction of Maureen George, who also leads on set design, the production embraces the rhythm of farce while allowing quieter, more heartfelt moments to breathe. The domestic setting works perfectly for the piece, feeling lived-in and instantly recognisable — a Christmas living room that becomes the battleground for festive tension and escalating misunderstandings.

Behind the scenes, Stage Manager Allan Lane keeps the production running smoothly, while David Ashton’s lighting and sound design supports the pacing and mood without distraction. Lighting operators Elijah Topliss and Melissa Arslan, alongside sound operator Archie Exhall, ensure technical elements remain sharp and responsive throughout.

The set is well supported by Paul Wescott as Set Building Manager, while costumes — provided by Sutton Arts Wardrobe and the cast — help clearly define character and social contrasts. Wardrobe Mistress Rachel Marshall keeps everything cohesive, and properties by Christina Townsend, Sue Atkins and Maureen George add the finishing touches that make the space feel authentically chaotic and lived-in.

Ultimately, A Kick in the Baubles succeeds because it recognises a simple truth: Christmas rarely goes to plan — and that’s exactly where the laughter lives. Warm, knowing and consistently funny, it offers audiences the chance to laugh at the madness while quietly recognising a little of their own family in the Baubles’ living room.

A festive treat that proves sometimes the best way to survive Christmas… is to laugh straight through it

Dick Whittington – Mint Theatre Society ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Dick Whittington – Mint Theatre Society

Stonnall Village Hall

Sunday 14th December – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

Mint Theatre Group once again bring community theatre magic to Stonnall Village Hall with their fun-filled production of Dick Whittington — a lively, laugh-a-minute pantomime packed with local humour, catchy songs and plenty of audience interaction.

Leading the show with charm and confidence, Ellie Ball makes a spirited Dick Whittington, full of enthusiasm and warmth. Her chemistry with Beth Howell as Alice Fitzwarren adds a lovely romantic note to the adventure, while Charlotte Ball as Fairy Bow Bells brings a graceful sparkle to every scene, guiding Dick and the audience with poise and gentle humour.

Every good panto needs its mischief, and Duncan Gleig as King Rat delivers villainy with relish — booed, hissed and loved in equal measure. Dave Stonehouse as Sarah the Cook is a joy from start to finish, delighting the crowd with larger-than-life energy, perfectly timed gags and more outrageous costumes than you can count.

Andrew Hughes shines as the ever-daft Idle Jack, keeping the laughter coming thick and fast, while Rebecca Shiner’s Cat adds a wonderfully playful touch with great physical comedy and charm. David Daly as Alderman Fitzwarren and Paul Warner as Sultan Vinegar both bring solid character work to their roles, and Liz Daly’s Tricky Pete adds just the right pinch of panto mischief.

The show is full of colourful set pieces, cheerful choreography and a clear sense of fun shared between cast and audience alike. With strong direction from Alex Howell, clever local references and plenty of heart, Dick Whittington captures exactly what makes traditional pantomime so special.

Mint Theatre Group prove once again that community theatre can deliver professional-quality laughs and feel-good festive entertainment.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A joyous, family-friendly pantomime brimming with humour, heart and hometown sparkle.

Beauty & The Beast – Talegate Theatre Productions ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beauty & The Beast – Talegate Theatre Productions

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Sunday 14th December

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

Talegate Theatre Productions once again deliver a dazzling slice of festive fun with Beauty and The Beast — a vibrant, laugh-out-loud retelling of the classic fairy tale packed with sparkle, songs and plenty of silliness.

From the moment the curtain rises, the energy never dips. Bethany Oliver brings warmth and poise to the role of Belle, her vocals clear and confident, while Gareth Lord gives real heart to the Prince/Beast, making the transformation scene genuinely magical.

There’s a perfect balance of humour and heart thanks to the show’s larger-than-life characters. Steve Boyce steals many a scene as the flamboyant Dame Cheri Gateau, serving quick-fire wit and fabulous costumes in equal measure. James Bartlett as Gaviscon and Josh Dixon as Franc the Fool keep the younger audience roaring with laughter — their comic timing and audience rapport spot on throughout.

Every panto needs a good villain, and Alexandra Allison as Witch Hazel delivers just that with gusto, conjuring boos, hisses and plenty of mischievous glee. Whilst singing Defying Gravity at the end of Act One, she quite literally does so — soaring above the stage in a spectacular and magical flying scene that left the audience gasping and applauding in delight.

Choreography by Justine Lee keeps the ensemble tight and lively, with Farrah Palmer (also Dance Captain) and Sophie Atkins leading the numbers with flair. The Sparkles School of Dance junior chorus add charm and enthusiasm to every scene they appear in.

Behind the scenes, the production team shine just as brightly. With direction and script by James Worthington, the pacing is sharp and the jokes land well for all ages. The colourful costumes (by Talegate Theatre Productions) and eye-catching scenery (by Dave Law) create a rich fairy-tale world, enhanced by Bethany Knowles’ clever lighting design and Burnt Toast SFX, whose special effects add a real touch of wonder.

It’s a show that truly embraces everything a pantomime should be — fun, interactive, full of heart and festive sparkle. Whether you’re booing the baddie, laughing at the Dame’s antics, or cheering for true love’s triumph, Beauty and The Beast is guaranteed to leave audiences smiling.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A magical, family-friendly treat brimming with energy, colour and Christmas cheer.

Sutton Arts Theatre – On The Piste ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

On The Piste – Sutton Arts Theatre

Sutton Arts Theatre

Thursday 1st May 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Sutton Arts Theatre

This is a play of brilliantly observed humour, On The Piste is full of laughs.

Telling the story of two holidaying couples – 30s somethings Alison and Chris (Jayne Lunn and Luke Saldana) and 20s somethings Bev and Dave (Harriet Gordon and Dan McCloskey) and the rich and stylish frequenter of the slopes, Melissa (Keyleigh Alison), and you have the formula for two hours comic drama.– On The Piste is set in the French Alpine resort of Chamonix.

Opening with a skier hurtling (well sliding on rollers) down a slope to the very edge of the stage catching everyone unawares. Extracting much humour from the sheer exhaustion of carrying around skiing equipment and balancing on bits of fibreglass, the play doesn’t skimp on keeping the audience engaged and amused.

With an inventive use of set, and some nice physical humour, the couples enjoy a drink together where we learn their histories and secrets, their insecurities, cute quirks and annoying habits, and along the way – too much information about one couple’s bedroom role play. There is also a memorable cable car ride, and an ultra hot sauna which is very eye opening! as they try to enjoy their trip under the roving eye of fit, perma tanned and passionate instructor Tony (enthusiastically played by Paul Atkins), whose presence oozes potential chaos.

Well acted throughout, the play touches on themes of class, Englishman abroad, and explores the shaky foundations on which the two relationships are based. So well-observed, the audience is effectively laughing at ourselves.

Well acted and designed, On The Piste speeds slalom style from mountain to hotel, via sauna and cable car, towards an increasingly inevitable outcome. I found myself continuously giggling – I don’t laugh out loud often, but I made quite a few exceptions for this play.

On until 10th May tickets available from https://suttonartstheatre.savoysystems.co.uk/SuttonArtsTheatre.dll/

Sleeping Beauty – Cloc MTC ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sleeping Beauty – Cloc Musical Theatre Company

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday 3rd February 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

Cloc Musical Theatres annual post Christmas pantomime is on this week at the town hall and is the classic Sleeping Beauty.

I’m sure everyone knows the story of Sleeping Beauty, beautiful princess cursed by her evil aunt pricks her finger falls asleep for 100 years and only true loves kiss can break the curse, I tell you now there will be no falling asleep during this show and there is no true loves kiss in this version, but that has no impact on the story.

First on stage we are greeted with three fairies who guide us through the tale, played by Tina Boyce, Hannah Muxlow and for a fairy with a difference Krystian Wharton who all play their roles with great comic awareness.

Central to the story are Nanny Nightnurse played by John Biddell no stranger to playing the dame and Muddles played by Calum Reynolds (Muddles) who for his first comedic role is brilliant arriving on stage by an array of methods, a space hopper and skateboard among them, all in a wonderful array of hats to go with his jesters costume he was one of my stars of the show. The other would be Princess Aurora played by Sophia Powers no stranger to playing princess’s and looks more and more like one every time I see her in a show, she has a wonderful singing voice and grows in confidence with every performance. Young Aurora is played by two young performers Belle Bottomley and Gracie Jones, I believe it was Belle on stage for the dress rehearsal i was at..wow what a voice strong and confident and she also performs well on stage.

The show is peppered with some well known catchy numbers which bring the whole cast together in some great dance routines.

Full credit for the wonderful show must go to the behind the scenes teams and producer Teresa Biddell a quick mention to Going Dark for excellent lighting.

Crooners

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Saturday 11th January 2025

By : Nigel Gambles

Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

The Crooners returned to Sutton Coldfield Town Hall last night to another full house after their sell out show last year.

Crooners has been wowing audiences with its witty and exhilarating show full of hilarious one liners, laugh out loud silliness and superb musical numbers with the outstanding 9-piece The Mini Big Band live on stage.

The show pays homage to some of the greatest Crooners of all time with a splendiferous injection of Britishness. Featuring humour, tap dance and some of the most quintessential songs from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, Matt Monro, Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin. Expect some Come Fly With Me, Fly Me to the Moon, Mack the Knife and more

The one liners and innuendo comes thick and fast and with lots of it aimed at the audience who took it all in good heart and laughter, in fact I don’t think the audience stopped laughing for the whole show.

If you have not seen this show and encountered the characters they portray you are missing out.