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A musical version of Disney's Bedknobs and Broomsticks at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

Portobello Road and Bobbing Along have been stuck in my head since I heard Bedknobs and Broomsticks was coming to Canterbury.

It's been a long long time since I've watched the film but remembered the basic story and was looking forward to seeing how they would get an animated football match on the stage.

Bedknobs and Broomsticks is coming to The Marlowe in Canterbury. Picture: The Marlowe Theatre (43603243)
Bedknobs and Broomsticks is coming to The Marlowe in Canterbury. Picture: The Marlowe Theatre (43603243)

It seemed impossible. And while there were no rhinos on a pitch, the impossible happened again and again.

From a flying bed to a classic scarf into a cane trick, the show was filled with tricks that even had the adults scratching their heads.

The show is the first ever stage adaptation of the 1971 Disney favourite. Set in the Second World War, it sees the three Rawlins children evacuated from London to the fictional Dorset town of Pepperinge Eye, in the care of the eccentric Miss Price. Before they know it, she is casting spells on their bed and sending them skywards on a magical adventure.

Clever mechanics and tricks with the set meant those magical adventures were flawlessly executed.

The ensemble are always hugely talented singers, actors and dancers in any show at the Marlowe but this group were extra special and the key to the show's magic.

They were puppet masters, magic makers and brightly coloured fish.

In a production that put so much effort into making the magic come alive it was this team who made it seem effortless on stage.

Dianne Pilkington, who plays Miss Eglantine Price- (the role immortalised on film by Angela Lansbury - in the new Bedknobs and Broomsticks stage musical
Dianne Pilkington, who plays Miss Eglantine Price- (the role immortalised on film by Angela Lansbury - in the new Bedknobs and Broomsticks stage musical

The main cast were also spectacular - the children were funny and hugely talented while Dianne Pilkington's voice gave me chills, and the relationship between all of them was touching.

The messages and poignant moments in the show were beautiful and emotional - I don't remember reaching for the tissues when watching the film.

There are some tickets still available for the show, which is at the Marlowe until Sunday, August 29.To book go to marlowetheatre.com

For more Entertainments news across Kent click here.

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