Aladdin

The warm greeting from the front of house staff at The Civic Centre was followed by an afternoon of entertainment, funny old jokes mixed with modern topics, song and dance and spectacular lighting effects.

The cast members immersed themselves totally in the characters they were playing and the familiar story was given a fresh approach when some members deviated from their usual roles and tried new characters. A good example of this was Dom Napier, who has previously opted for the role of the villain in previous pantomimes, took on the role of Wishee-Washee and showed what a talent he has for comedy. Harlequins’ Dame Paul Bowman was once again Widow Twankey. With Paul the audience know exactly how the Dame will behave and they laugh at his ancient jokes and antics. A tried and tested performer who doesn’t disappoint.

Talented Harriet Hommers who always excels in whatever role she appears,  be it pantomime or musical comedy, gave a faultless performance and lit up the stage with her bright smile at every entrance.

Director of the pantomime, Alf Rai donned on a costume and became The Genie of the Lamp and brought a sense of fun to the role. Dave Callaghan playing Abanazar was suitably nasty and was booed with gusto every time he appeared. The principals were well supported by company members each one giving the most to their role. Good singing from the chorus and the choreography was pleasing. The musical arrangements were by Rob Murray and the players joined in the fun.

The show opened on a beautiful stage setting with good scenery and lovely fresh looking costumes. Excellent lighting and sound effects and scene changes were smooth and didn’t interrupt the flow of the story.

The full house audience, consisting of the usual children, Mums, Dads, Grannies and Grandpas cheered in all the appropriate places, sang along, laughed at all the jokes and had a thoroughly good time.   

Jean Beard

 

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