A Little Princess

The presently homeless Playlovers are presenting A Little Princess at Stirling Theatre, in a production that uses the borrowed venue beautifully.

A fabulous looking production that blends the colours of Africa with the decorum and manners of Victorian London - highlighted by beautifully co-ordinated costumes by Lyn Hutcheon and a versatile set designed by Lisa Johnston and Amber Southall. The colours of the various locales and exotic dream-sequences are highlighted by creative lighting by Katrina Johnston.

A ten piece orchestra is led by Paul Olsen, and is tight and well-co-ordinated. Sound is nicely managed by Daniel Toomath.

The central role of Sara Crewe is shared by Stephanie Shaw and Jasmine Dos Santos, Stephanie Shaw played Sara with depth and strong singing at the final preview, while Jasmine will make her community theatre debut in this challenging role.

Cockney servant Becky is beautifully played by Sophia Matthews in her first community theatre performance, while Spencer is wonderful and moving as Sara’s loving father. Richard Manganga is delightful as Captain Crewe’s companion and understated hero Paso, while Shikuku Cuthbertson is a welcome addition in her Australian debut as the lovely Aljana.

Celeste Underhill delightfully drips evil as the thoroughly nasty Miss Minchin, with Erin Craddock an excellent contrast as her dotty but loveable sister Amelia.

A talented collection of schoolgirls charm throughout the show. Sienna Freeman is gorgeously awkward as the unfortunate Ermengarde, Josephine Ellis (sharing with Bella Freeman) is especially sweet as youngest student Lottie, while Katie Price is deliciously vindictive as mean-girl Lavinia. Lovely support from Holly Jamieson, Ella Hagon and Ella Simpson.

Choreography is strong and well-executed throughout and choreographer Amber Southall is impressive in her appearances as Queen Victoria. Meesha Williams also shines in a moving cameo.

A strong ensemble is enthusiastic throughout, with some revelling in their first stage appearance, alongside veteran performers.

A Little Princess is a clear sign that Playlovers has amazing strength in adversity, creating a beautiful show despite losing their home of 50 years unexpectedly during rehearsals. Let us hope that this is the first of many post-eviction Playlovers productions.

Kimberley Shaw