‘The Moorland Merrymakers, who were formed in 1965, are pleased to announce that they have undertaken a live traditional pantomime on the Leusdon Memorial Hall stage just above Poundsgate,’ said Chairman Rob Steemson.

 ‘They say patience is a virtue and I am pleased that our producer Ali Whale has plenty, in fact two years’ worth! She volunteered at our annual meeting in 2019 to produce Hansel and Gretel for in theory 2020 until COVID struck.’

To keep the group going last year they stepped outside on to Dartmoor to undertake a filmed version of Jack and the Beanstalkthat was written by one of the members talented Philip Reeve. 

This was professionally filmed by Alec Collyer MBE, and then shown to limited audiences.  

Producer Ali Whale said: ‘What a brilliant feeling. I am so pleased to be able to bring Hansel and Gretel to the stage. 

‘It is the one pantomime I remember watching the group perform when I was six years old, and it has always stayed with me. This is the first time it has been performed since, so I am very happy to bring it back with such an amazing cast and crew.’

The group welcomed some new members and froze ticket prices at 2019 level and served teas and pasties in the interval at all the shows last week.    

Rob concluded: ‘We continue to live in unprecedented times, and the cast have all enjoyed having some great fun and laughs whilst rehearsing. 

‘We most certainly thrive off our audiences’ responses and wee encouraged them to relax and join in wherever possible. 

‘We thank them and also the Leusdon Memorial Hall Committee (who are celebrating the Halls centenary year in 2023) for their continued support.’