I JOINED a packed house of eager land lubbers at the Barn, Cattle Country to see Treasure Island, this year’s pantomime served up by the Berkeley Amateur Dramatic Society.

This production was one of their sharpest and funniest for years, led by Tony Cullimore as the villainous Long John Silver, who certainly shivered our timbers. There were plenty of pirate gags as you would expect, and ‘Avast Behind’, Bob Hunt as usual played the Dame. As is his custom, he kept the audience and fellow cast members guessing as he ad libbed his way through the evening. Billy Furey as Squire Trelawney drew the short straw as the Dame’s love interest.

In this show the traditional comedy duo were a pair of hapless pirates called Jolly, and yes you’ve guessed it, Roger. Played by Bev Graham and Jane Bailey they kept the laughs coming at a cracking pace. There was plenty of song and ‘dance’ too as is traditional in BADS pantomimes. The love interest was provided by two of the younger members of the company, as George Knight and Rachel Sheldon served up an early Valentine’s treat with their rendition of ‘Somethin’ Stupid’.

V Boobyer directed the production which must have been a challenge to marshal so successfully such a talented but possibly undisciplined company. The simple but effective lighting and set design all added to what was a hugely enjoyable evening. By hook or by crook, make sure you catch their next production.

Tim Tynan