Aladdin

Right from the start when Abanazar (John Carroll) made his appearance in the prologue, the audience entered into the feeling of the show. He revelled in his villainy and what a nasty laugh he produced.  On rubbing the magic ring he was joined by The Spirit (Melanie Baker) who was looking for a chance to escape from her unpleasant  master. After his departure, to a full house of boos and jeers, the curtains opened onto a delightful set with a cast of enthusiastic chorus superbly costumed, well schooled in their singing and dancing bringing the whole show to life.  From this point on the production maintained a very high standard in all these departments having all the ingredient expected by a young audience but also keeping the adult viewers happy with a varied choice of music, well played, and plenty of good clean comedy.  Aladdin would not be Aladdin without the Chinese policeman (Chris Scott and Ian Sheppard) who showed their considerable experience and expertise in delivering their parts.  Alex Laker as the Emperor was indeed formidable especially when threatening to behead Aladdin (Rachel Smith) and bullying his daughter Princess Mandarin (Claire Bennett).  These two gave excellent performances especially when singing ‘You’re the one that I Want’ and ‘I belong to the Stars’.   So Shy, (Kelly Manchee) made her mark as a handmaiden to the princess who accompanied a delightful team of children singing ‘Happy Talk’.  She was also very involved in the laundry scene, which was well done, where she strongly supported Wishie Washee (Luke Palmer)  the younger son ‘ not addicted to work’ !!! but certainly excellent on stage. Ryan Jupp as the genie brought a different slant to the role and Tim Ede WAS Widow Twankey. Absolutely outstanding in every respect. He made her memorable and a sheer joy from start to finish. LMCS have always been a hard working society and this was evident in this show. Director Lena Hill and her production team all did a great job and the costume department were no exception. I have not mentioned all the members who must have worked so hard but their contribution is none the less for that.

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