ALISON CROOSE Princess Theatre, Hunstanton

ALISON CROOSE

Princess Theatre, Hunstanton

Sadly Hunstanton no longer has a pier, but that doesn't stop the resort staging an “end-of-the-pier show” as part of its summer season of attractions.

There was a welcome return for Keith 'Appy' Hopkins, who for 12 years was the very popular dame in Hunstanton pantomime. He was compere for the variety show and set the standard for the entertainment with his slick presentation and fine singing voice.

There was something for everyone from the colourful luminous puppets presented by Chris Convington to the singing and humour of Vivienne McMaster.

Multi-instrumentalist Kevin Dean displayed his virtuosity on guitar and mandolin, recreating the sounds of Bert Weedon and The Shadows in a fast-moving performance much appreciated by the audience.

Star turn was Norfolk's Olly Day who provided all-round entertainment with his humour and his singing. He has the voice and timing to reproduce some favourite show-stoppers, and the personality to readily engage the audience who enjoyed his comedy, particularly his humorous Norfolk references.

His act was visual, too, especially when Dorothy from King's Lynn joined him on stage for some hilarious magic which relied on the co-operation of a hypnotic snake.