Aladdin

Pantomime is probably the most difficult of theatrical genres to get across and even more so for young performers but this group certainly managed it.There was much to commend in this production from slick choreography and the use of dance routines covering scene changes to individual performances.

Nicole Spragg (Ping) and Pong (Ethan Terry) cleverly led us into the story by introducing Abanazar (Dan Shaw) and he certainly got the audience going with his evil laugh. The diction of Maddison Clarke (Slave of the Ring) was excellent and she also had a good singing voice. There was plenty of typical panto knockabout fun from Neve Doherty (Sergeant Chop) and Wicktoria Matysiak (P.C. Suey). Zac Hayes as the hero Aladdin displayed a maturity in his singing voice well beyond his years and was well matched by Phoebe Shepherd as Princess Jasmine. Anna Simpson (Wishee Washee) was delightful and she had a good repartee with the audience. Cameron Simpson (Widow Twankey) was a good traditional dame as he tottered around the stage in a variety of outrageous outfits and his comedy timing was excellent. Sydney Pope was suitably regal as the Emperor and Holly Nelson as the cheeky Princess’s handmaiden, Notsoshy, worked well with Anna Simpson. Toby Nelson (Genie of the Lamp) had the unenviable task of delivering all his lines in rap, a task that he achieved with ease. There was also a good routine fronted by Emilie Shepherd as The Entertainer.

The singing by principals, ensembles and chorus was strong throughout with some good harmonies supported by a sympathetic quartet led by MD Chris Corcoran.

Well done to all involved! 

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