Aladdin

We received a lovely welcome at the door from Maxine McKay and entered a very busy Front of House full of excited children and adults. Our seats were excellent and just perfect for watching both the stage and the reactions of the audience. A quick glance at the programme informed me that several performers are also members of the other local societies, which must keep them very busy.

The action started with a spectacular pyro flash bang with Linda Riddy as Jinni, the ‘Goodie’ Spirit of the Ring appearing on stage to set the scene. It was a shame that she didn’t stay in her spotlight special as her lines were well delivered. There was a great audience reaction to the entrance of Abanazar played by Keith Jenkinson. Keith played an excellent baddy throughout with good accent and physicality. He also sang very well, his rendition of ‘You Can Get Away with Anything’ from Woman in White was particularly strong. Whilst there were a few sound problems during the show, I thought the green lighting and echo sound for Abanazar was very good.

The comedy double act, Tong (George Kelly) and Chong (Ian Francis) were very funny throughout the performance, with George Kelly once again demonstrating his strong stage presence and good vocals in ‘Come Fly With Me.’ Their comedic routine to ‘Istanbul not Constantinople’ was particularly funny, a pity that it was not possible to have a sand tray for their wonderful Wlison and Keppel sand dance routine.

Jess Riddy as Aladdin and Raffan Rivers as Princess Ying Yui performed some tuneful duets and a had a good stage relationship. I enjoyed Keith Popely as Wishee Washee, his comedy timing and audience engagement was very good. I caught most of the joke punch lines, but it was a shame that a few were thrown away, although from the laughter some audience members heard them. I have to say an image of his belly dancing costume will remain with me forever!

Widow Twanky Panto Dame, complete with a very orange curly wig was played by Tony Knox. It took me a while to get used to his portrayal as it was more reserved than some Dames I’ve seen. I was expecting lots of inuendo’s and costume changes whereas this was a more of a supporting role but was played in a suitably domineering way to the main characters.

The company was supported throughout the show with strong performances by Lewis Mckay’s new dance troupe – Storm School of Dance. I was particularly impressed with the amount of acrobatic/gymnastic skills demonstrated and enthusiasm from the whole group whenever they were on stage. I particularly enjoyed the solo performance in Kungfu Fighting.

Amy Saffrette, was right on cue and very convincing as a feminist Genie of the Lamp. As was Tom Kirkbride as the bumbling, fatherly figure, Feng Shui.

The remaining cast of Anna Crompton, Lynda Collins, Laura Collins, Michael Mazzone and Emma Ward supported the production very well.

I cannot write this report without mentioning the Snowball Fight – what fun and what a brilliant idea. I enjoyed it far too much!! This was most definitely a pantomime to be enjoyed by the local community both young and old. The atmosphere in the auditorium was happy and joyful, and the audience participation was enjoyed by all. Thank-you St Neots Players, for an entertaining evening.

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