Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer
'Miss Matilda' (right) and her son 'Boysie' (centre) in a scene from the LTM 2005 National Pantomime 'Zu-Zu Macca'. At left is King Zu-Zu Macca. An excerpt from the pantomime was presented at the Institute of Jamaica's lunch hour concert on Thursday.
Guests at the National Institute lunch hour concert downtown Kingston on Thursday last were treated to a sneak preview of this year's colourful and exciting LTM National Pantomime, 'Zu-Zu Macca', written and coordinated by Barbara Gloudon.
The story is set in the Kingdom of Zu-Zu Macca where all is not well, to the distress of King ZuZu and the good Queen Peppermint. Flood rains have opened up the potholes and times are very hard. As if that were not enough, the Cubbitch have turned up to claim payment for a debt which nobody knew about. What will happen? How to keep the Cubbitch from the door?
The Prince Mahoe will not work. He finds clubbing more fulfilling. Then, there is the Princess Roses Flowers whose philosophy is that everything should be co-oo-l. In the midst of all this comes the level-headed Jamaican mother, Miss Matilda and her son Boysie, the first resident of Zu-Zu Macca to graduate (or is it 'gradderate'?).
riotous drama
With all the various elements intricately weaved, a riotous drama unfolds on stage.
The play is directed by Bobby Clarke, with Grub Cooper providing the music, and two of the National Dance Theatre Company's lead members Chris Walker and Marlon Simms collaborating on the choreography. Award winners Michael Lorde designed the set, Anya Gloudon the costumes, and Michael McDonald lighting.
The leading performers include Kevin Roach, Faith Bucknor, Melward Morris, Carlton Butler, Nadean Rawlins, Jackie Higgins, Doreen King, George Howard and Delrose Burke.
'Zu-Zu Macca', the 2005/06 LTM National Pantomime, opens Boxing Day, December 26, at the Little Theatre.
