A Madge'ical day in London

When Robert Madge first entertained the audiences in the Snarestone Village Pantomime, it soon became clear that he had that "Certain something" which it could safely be said, none of the other cast had! Be it confidence or just a general love of being on stage, Robert was destined for greater things. They came when he wrote in applying for a part in a West End favourite and was successful in getting the part of Michael Banks in Mary Poppins at the Prince Edward Theatre in London's famous West End. He has been sharing this role with other young actors to fit in with theatre rules and his education, so when he was able to confirm his dates, we took the family to see just how the transition from Mick Clamps fine stage in Snarestone C of E school to the big stage was going. The first thing to hit us as we sat in the front row and looked back, was how nervous we were!! There were an awful lot of excited people who had paid a lot of money in the theatre, and the cost of the programme was more than an entire nights takings back in Leicestershire. So why were we nervous, 'our Robert' as he was becoming known, has been doing this for over a year now. Sure enough, when the lights dimmed and the spectacular scenery and atmospheric lighting set up in front of our eyes, there was Robert, commanding the stage as if he were born there. From start to finish, thoroughly professional, not a mark missed, never a glance out of place, not a word out of place and definitely not a shout of 'Norman, is it me?' as we do in Snarestone. Our nerves for him soon turned to glowing pride in every scene as the immense professionalism of the production swept us through this magical tale. The show itself is now a multiple award winning production, and after sitting through other shows, its easy to see why. Fantastic scenery and some very clever stage illusions combined with faultless vocal talents of all involved, it really does send you home with the tunes still repeating in your head. Practically Perfect, as the lady would say herself! And as for 'our Robert'? We couldn't keep him away from making a few guest appearances in the panto this year, fitting in around his schedule, and even quoting our production in his programme notes. Not bad for a local lad.

On behalf of the cast and crew of the Snarestone pantomime, we wish Robert all the very best for the future.

Robert is now appearing in "Oliver" as the Artful Dodger, alongside Rowan Atkinson in London's West End. We will be off to see him soon.

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