'Anansi and Goat Head Soup' will make you laugh

In Africa, where he was often intimidated and sometimes outwitted by his more ferocious counterparts such as brers Lion and Tiger, the folk character Anansi was always struggling to feed his family. But on arrival at English-speaking Caribbean Islands like Jamaica with access to food made even easier by docile animals such as Pig, Cow and Goat, Anansi's skill at trickery sharpened. But Anansi's arrival at the shores of a colonised Jamaica was many centuries ago. Next year, Jamaica celebrates 50 years of independence from England. So what should a maturing Jamaica do with Anansi?

The 2011-12 Little Theatre Movement (LTM) Pantomime, 'Anansi and Goat Head Soup' sought to provide an answer.

With spectacle leading the charge of production elements, followed by some impressive acting, the Barbara Gloudon-penned book and lyrics had Boxing Day patrons laughing and applauding for the most part, as the people and animals took a stance on Anansi's trickery.

The drama begins with a high-pitched Miss Mac (Doreen King) conducting rehearsal with members of the Jamma-land Community Cultural Group. The excitement is elevated when Miss Mac's groups, 'Umans, are joined by the Animulls, Goat (Kevin Halstead) Man Cow (Carlton Butler) and Pig (Nicole Taylor). All are owned by Farmer Marcus (Cadine Hall), though he does not seem to be able to control the wayward bunch.

With a hailing truck and the three wayward animals wreaking havoc in Jamma-land, Marcus was faced with challenges. The trouble is compounded by a returning Anansi (Ray Jarrett) who had a craving for goat-head soup. And, of course, Anansi has a plan to satisfy his appetite. He calls that plan "Cash for Goat".

The implications of Anansi's plans send Goat and his two partners in crime - Man Cow and Pig - running from country to town. Subsequently Goat, with help from Marcus and his two counterparts, fights off their antagonist.

Anansi's scheme falls through, but not before he promises more controversy with another plan.

And so the story ends with the promise of further action.

'Anansi and Goat Head Soup' has three subplots marked by three groups of characters: Anansi and his family, The Animulls and the 'Umans. The subplots are interwoven into a story that moves through a variety of settings. They range from rolling fields in rural Jamma-land to an industrial-looking city marked by an unmistakable "Cho-Cho Vine Transport Centre" and Jamma-land International Airport.

While the Michael Lorde-designed set, was extraordinary in appearance, it still allowed for swift and easy scene changes.

Over the years, the LTM National Pantomime has been associated with its use of various modes of transportation. This season is no different, only better. But the fantastic spectacle that graced the stage of the Little Theatre was not limited to only set. Props and costumes were just as remarkable.

The Anya Gloudon-Nelson designs were appropriate for each character. Additionally, she abandoned the bright colours usually associated with Anansi for more earthy colours and a more stylish-looking design.

The African costumes, along with those, including masks, worn by Man Cow, Goat and Pig are also worthy of mention.

Symone Coombs' props, especially those used in the farmers' market scene, were also well done, creating an unbelievably realistic image.

There were inconsistencies in the acting. Whereas Halstead, Butler and Taylor were believable in their roles and transmitted humour to the audience and delivered their lines clearly, it was not so with others.

Many lines spoken by the 'Umans were lost because of poor diction and articulation. Jarrett gave a very engaging interpretation of Anansi.

Directorial duties of 'Anansi and Goat Head Soup' were undertaken by Robert 'Bobby' Clarke. For the most part he did well.

And commendations must be given to first-time pantomime choreographer Patrick Earle. His nicely choreographed movements were not only refreshing, but complemented each of the lively songs, especially Animull a Sumaddy-to, What a Lovely Harvest and Anansi Historee.

'Anansi and Goat Head Soup' will make you laugh. The set will make you say 'wow' and the songs will have you rocking. Go see it.