ACCLAIMED by the public as one of the best Abergavenny Pantomime Company shows in years the challenge of bringing the story of Puss in Boots was a not an inconsiderable one for this lively ensemble.

In panto a thin script is perhaps a given but I have to say this one was thinner and more dated than most with some almost unfathomable moments, not helped by the border-line self indulgent ad-libbing, which at times threatened to take over the entire evening.

However, thanks to the exuberant playing and panto talents of the entire cast, Puss in Boots maintains the reputation of APC as one of the town's most successful theatrical groups.

Heading the cast as Dame Dumpling was the always popular Ken Jones, whose ever increasing eccentricities bring a new dimension to the role year after year.

His entrance astride a home-made hobby horse drew hoots of laughter from the audience who delight in his every appearance.

Supporting him as Big Mac and Little Slack were company newcomer Colin Lewis and comedy stalwart Stephen Clark, who also directed the production with his customary gusto.

Best known as a director, it was good to see Colin given full rein to display his talents in a comedy duo opposite a bouncier than ever Stephen.

Perhaps the most memorable performances of the evening came from the youngest members of the cast - Molly

Brickley Clark, in the title role, Chelsea Viveash as Jack and Honey McKenna as Princess Flavia, who all excelled and demonstrated once and for all that the future of theatre in Abergavenny is in safe hands.

Molly's versions of Pack Up and Upside Down showed a talent far beyond her 13 years of age, while Chelsea and Honey's version of Getting to Know You was a crowd pleasing highlight. To have all three in the cast must be a director's dream.

For me however, ever scene was stolen by Zach Clee, who showed real comic style with his archly camp Soldier Sam. With spot on timing and a sneaky glance to the audience, he has a real Julian Clary like charm which will take him far.

The principal cast was completed by comedy newcomer Joe Pugh and the ever reliable team of Len Lane as 'Orrible 'Erbert the ogre, whose flash-bang entrances drew the customary boos and hisses from the audience and Peter Holder, who must by now have played every hard up Baron or caught short King in panto history, as King Stewart.

With all pantos it is of course the colour and gusto of the chorus that grabs the attention and this was no exception with the large - and young - chorus, under the guidance of musical director / choreographer Jaci Brickley-Clark, delighting with their every appearance.

Their lively renditions of I'm a Believer, Pack Up and the rafter-raising finale helped make this a truly memorable evening, which even the nerve jangling bangs and flashes couldn't put a dampener on.

From a dance perspective the chilling version of Michael Jackson's Thriller - choreographed by Molly Brickley-Clark was a highlight as was the Mouse Ballet... I just know that the sight of Ken Watkins and Phil Butcher as oversized pink rodents will stay with me for many a long day!

With tickets at a premium those who are able to catch the last few days of the show are in for a family-sized treat - expecially if they ignore the smattering of Liz Davies jokes which compare me unfavourably with 'Orrible 'Erbert.

I should warn the company that I have consulted my legal advisor, who says I'm unlikely to win a court battle because of the element of truth to the allegations. I have however gone a step further....I've booked my mother tickets for the Friday matinée....and trust me she'll give any Dame Dumpling a run for her money!