Memories

We all rounded the corner, sat down, made ourselves comfortable on the grass, adjusted our sunhats, and became aware of muttering, pointing and laughing. Before us, was a magnificent stone archway, perched on top was a man in a caterpillar costume.


Every year there is a pantomime held in the Botanical Gardens, a retelling of some fairytale or mythical adventure. It will be set in several different locations around the gardens, so the group walks to the next scene, and settles back in to continue watching. Throughout December schools flock to the shows as an end of year treat. I remember seeing Treasure Island, Robin Hood, Aladdin, and of course, Alice in Wonderland, with its beautiful caterpillar perched on top of this very archway. I remember it every time I come along this path, and it still makes me smile.