ALADDIN

The poster and programme stated “A Magical Family Pantomime”, and this production certainly justified this statement in every sense of the word, as this was truly a super production. All the sets were cleverly designed and beautifully presented as usual. Sound and lighting were spot on throughout the performance. The cast of nearly thirty adults pulled out all the stops and the piece flowed from start to finish.

The Genie of the Ring, competently played by Leah Bell and strikingly attired in a bright pink outfit, set us on our journey which led to a superb opening number from the chorus. The title role of Aladdin, was in the capable hands of Katie Deyes, who is no stranger to the stage, she coped well with all her vocal tasks, whether it was solo work, duets, or leading the company in many of the big chorus numbers, Katie took each situation in her stride and gave us an admirable performance. Good portrayal of Princes Jasmine from Lisa Buckley who was articulate and blended well with Aladdin in all musical numbers. I liked the contribution from Steve Davies as Abanazar, who seemed to revel in the role of ‘the baddie – turned good at the end,’ of course. Steve was richly attired and extracted the correct reaction from the audience, particularly the children, with all the boos and hisses he received, and I must mention his fantastic make-up which intensified his facial expressions throughout and added to the character. Abanazar’s solo in Act 2 was a highlight. Jay Timms was a perfect Widow Twankey and delighted the audience from start to finish. What an array of costumes and wigs!! His rapport with the audience was excellent and he held them in the palm of his hand in every scene.

What an energetic performance from Phil Reid as Wishee Washee, Widow Twankey’s laundry boy!! Phil, a natural in this role, was full of ‘pantomime’ from start to finish. The audience loved him throwing himself all over the stage and he had the opportunity to demonstrate his prowess in ventriloquism, with the help of someone from the audience. Thom Hallows gave us another spirited characterization of Nobby the Panda, who mimed throughout the piece, a tall order but Thom came up with all the goods in this difficult role. Experienced Chris Baglin again delighted the audience as The Emperor, diction and voice projection was perfect. Great entrance from Sergeant Ping and PC Pong, on a mobility scooter, from Amy Hallows and Mike Probert respectively, who both carried out their roles with aplomb. Ellen Buckley completed the cast as a confident Genie of the Lamp and gave us a ‘spirited’ portrayal of the character. Her duet with Aladdin in Act two was indelible to the delight of the audience.

I noticed all the chorus, as well as principles, acting throughout the piece. The opening saw the whole company smiling on stage. The Choreography was excellent throughout with the Cave dance with the jewels at the end of Act 1 being a highlight, together with the Flying Carpet effect in Act 2.

This was a disciplined production – costumes and hairstyles, together with the correct shoes worn in all scenes, were notable and the support from the five piece band was superb. Backstage crew, our unsung heroes, worked tirelessly with scenery and props.

There is usually a ‘great! - BUT’ – I really couldn’t find a ‘BUT’ with this production. – FAB!!

Congratulations, thank you for your invitation and warm welcome – I look forward to your next production.

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