Aladdin

Upon entering the theatre I was immediately impressed by the front of house team made up of members of the society. It was genuine warm welcome that goes a long way to make the night of an audience member start off right. A mix of modern music played through the house speakers which was just the right touch to get you in the mood for a good night of panto!

The stage was dimly lit with staggered drapes from the rafters to the stage floor. This made for a great effect of being in Asia on the street of Peking. As the lights dimmed music to announce the arrival of Abanazar wouldn’t have been out of place introducing Simon Cowell on the X Factor and was perfect for actor James Gill to make an immediate impact. His interpretation of the baddie was very good although sometimes lines were a little rushed and you lost some of the dialogue. The booing from the audience definitely conveyed that he was a good baddie!   His minions Piff, Paff, Puff were comically in time with each other and looked to be having an amazing time on stage. 

We were then introduced to the Spirit of the Ring played by young Hannah Matthews. I’m always impressed when someone so young can be so competent and Hannah was no exception, well done! Dame Widow Twankey played by Darren Williams was a particular highlight. Great delivery of lines and interaction with the audience was second to none. Matched with a fine singing voice and excellent comedic timing what more could you want from a Dame? 

Aladdin and his brother Wishee Washee are seen running through the streets from the police which reminded me of the old Benny Hill chase scenes. I particularly enjoyed the youngest of the police force who was constantly “not wanting to be there” a real crowed pleaser. 

Aladdin played by Alex Pearce is a complete natural on stage. A very believable actor and in fine voice too.  There were a couple of minor hiccups on stage, one being the cave door not opening enough for Aladdin to retrieve the lamp. Alex took this all in his stride without hesitation. Wishee Washee played by Tara Woollacott was again lovely to listen to. A lovely singing voice that was a joy to hear. Once Aladdin had retrieved the lamp we met the Genie played by Andy Gill.  Fantastic costume and amazing make up made him look every part the genie although a little loose on lines at times he made the part undoubtedly his own. 

To break up scene changes we were often entertained by the two tea ladies Ty Phoo and Pee Gee played by Gina Walkey and Oriel Bennett respectively. The comedy timing between these two ladies was faultless. I was still giggling on the way home from some of the lines.  Fantastic for a company to have such talent for younger ones to learn from. 

I feel I have to mention the scene in act 2 when the Grand Vizier played by Grace Withers is put through the washing machine, shrunk, then stretched then tumble dried.  This was done so cleverly with the use of child actors and cardboard cut outs and was a real moment in the show to remember.  At the end we see Aladdin and Princess So-Shy played by Bella Lake who had the “I’m a princess” down to a tee reunited. 

The finale lighting encompassed the auditorium with dotted fairy lights which made you feel part of the production.  Very simple yet very effective. 

This was a lovely production and everyone on stage made a fantastic effort.  The whole company both on stage and off should be very proud of themselves.  

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