Aladdin

It may be March, but Panto season is still going strong in Wombwell, with this year’s offering, Aladdin. Written by Alan P Frayn, this Panto was modern, fresh and full of laughs. Directed by Sue Gent and Josephine Owen, it was a laugh from start to finish which showed that that both Sue and Josephine know what Panto is all about. Special mention must go to Vanessa Bates, who provided some stunning costumes for the cast to wear. I particularly liked the costume for the Genie of the Lamp. 

Leon Firth played our villain, Abanazar and got plenty of jeers from the audience. Rachel Harris was a magical Spirit of the Ring and treated the audience to her beautiful voice. The Genie of the Lamp was expertly played by Elliot Cable, who commanded stage with every entrance. Andrea Eustis portrayed our hero, Aladdin, with ease and was every inch the principal boy we have come to expect and was well matched with Isabella Woodcock as Princess Mandarin. Isabella is a wonderful young performer, and I’m looking forward to seeing what this talented youngster does next. Another talented young performer taking on a principal role was Eleannor Young, as So-Shy and kept order in the scenes in the Takeaway. The society should be applauded for the opportunities it gives to their youth members. Andy Harris supported the principal line up as the Emperor of China, along with his idiotic policemen, Wong and Pong, played by Nadine Young and audience favourite, Sue Gent. Colleen Owen as Wishee Washee was excellent. Full of energy and life, Colleen must be exhausted after each performance. The children in the audience loved her antics. 

However ,the ace in the pack here is Chris Wakeford as Widow Twankey. Chris has played the Dame at Wombwell for a number of years, and the audience wait for his entrance. His interactions with the audience are legendary and are totally hilarious. 

With a good ensemble, pyrotechnics and a live band, this was one panto I wish I could see again.

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