Aladdin

I can remember my review for “Wizard of OZ” a few years back and it was Debbie Brennan’s debut as a director. I said in this review that Debbie should keep it up, as OZ was a splendid production. Debbie I am so glad you have continued to do so. Being a leading lady in many productions in the Medway Towns a beautiful voice and acting ability, both of these showed in your latest directorship of ‘Aladdin”. But is the ramp becoming your “signature” I hope so its very ingenious, also adding more space to the Brooke Theatre.

Aladdin is a very well crafted piece of pantomime. Keep it up.Peter Bailey as MD with his band (Owen McColgan, Rob Ferguson, Chas Alder and Alex Coveney) gave us his usual expertise in musical direction, being seen this time (at back of stage in full view)…..so they had to behave, dressed as Chinese coolies I ask you…….

Bethany Kember’s choreography seemed to fill the stage and was executed by her dancers to a high standard, both from the young and older (yes Gerry ). Bethany covered all aspects of dance and also some good tap…..we like tap. Well done.Stage manager Roger Hart, who kept the stage changes swift. Costume ladies Jo Kember and Julie Smith once again excelled with the very colourful costumes as did Gerald Flannigan on Props.

Debbie’s cast did her proud, a superb characterization from Lee Round as Abanzar, duly ugly and very nasty piece of work - fab make up Lee. Pong and Wong (Marianna Allen and Laura Stonemen) were the comedy element and comedy they were - great job girls. Amy Allen as Princess Mandarin shone on stage with a great voice and terrific stage presence, as did Carly Caller as Wishee Washy. A very manly Aladdin in Aidan Harwood. Larry Davis very Royal as the Emperor. Spirit of the Ring Shannon-Leigh Harris sparkled, So-Shy Megan Chapman, gave a good support to Princess Manderine. Dame Widow Twanky Nick Smith looked good as a Dame but needed more volume and needed to open up and take control a little more. Glenn Atkinson as Genie of the Lamp, what can I say, blue, tall and camp, Oh dear “I'm late” Glenn really!! but it was funny. 

Debbie’s Aladdin gave us a solid funny afternoon at the panto - the kids loved it, that’s what is needed and Debbie you certainly gave us that. A simple but very informative two-page programme designed once again by Rebecca Lehmann.

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