Aladdin

This company go from strength to strength - and this pantomime, was to me, the icing on the cake! Here we had the traditional story of 'Aladdin' by Alan P Frayne, but with a very modern twist, making it ideal both for younger and older audiences and extremely well received the evening I attended.

The inimitable Bryan Craven directed the production with flair and complete understanding of the genre - he was also a brilliant 'Widow Twankey', relishing his asides to the audience at every opportunity! He was ably assisted by Carolyn Craven as Assistant Director and much was made of the characterisations by a talented cast. Claire Hoyland (Aladdin) and Megan Basset (Princess Jasmine) played their parts in a modern and lively way, with fabulous singing ranges. Matthew Tempest (Wishee Washee) possessed a great sense of comedy timing, perfectly suited to the character, along with Robert Stott as a wickedly amusing 'Abanazar'. Other principals added to a great mix - Dan Austwick (Genie of the Lamp), Candice Whitaker (a glamorous Spirit of the Ring) Rachel Winfield (So Shy) and Graham Siddle as the Emperor, all brought a wealth of experience to their roles and made them magical. Knockabout comedy was provided by the two Peking Policemen, Darren Ryder (a Geordie Yo-Dun-Wong) and Gemma Fry (Hu-Dun-Pong) - absolutely hilarious! They were well supported by good dancers, ensemble and a junior chorus, who brought an enthusiasm and energy to the production.

Musical direction and keyboards was provided by Craig Cockerill - who had chosen some excellent pieces of music, which fitted well into the story, along with Rodney Ankrah on percussion. Choreography was, once again, in the experienced hands (and feet!) of Emma Tempest and Donna Wells - they had drilled the cast well with fine dance moves! The Technical team, headed by Paul Harding was first rate - stylish sets, great sound and lighting effects, good props and excellent costumes, with make-up executed by students of Leeds City College. Congratulations to a very hard-working backstage team.

I commented to the cast after the performance that this had been a stunning pantomime, very professional and so enjoyable - a team effort, so beloved of LIDOS, which is the core of Community Theatre - and long may it continue! 

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