I saw Ali in Dad’s Army and as a result of his performance asked him if he would like to appear in Panto. He immediately said yes and so I had the pleasure of working with him when he played Ravioli one of the Ugly Sisters in my production of Cinderella in December last year. He was so excited about performing in his first Panto and took to the role with great enthusiasm and hard work. From singing Keep Young and Beautiful to wearing a ball gown shaped and decorated like a Christmas tree and tottering around on a pair of stiletto heels, nothing fazed him and he charmed and entertained the audiences. You only have to look at the photographs to see how much he enjoyed himself. I did ask him to perform again for this year’s Panto and although he was not able to do so he expressed his desire to come along to enjoy the show from the other side of the curtain.
As the magic of Panto weaves its spell again this year all of us will remember a really lovely guy who bought so much pleasure and fun to so many people. Thanks Ali you really wowed them “oh yes you did!”
With fond memories
Tricia Dibb
