Aladdin

Aladdin

Driffield Musical Theatre

 

Producer Linda Wilson, Choreographer Chloe Ellis, Props Holly Rebecca

Driffield Methodist Hall

21/11/25

Driffield Musical Theatre kicked off the panto season with plenty of laughter in their production of Aladdin. As we’ve come to expect from this ever-growing group, the show was packed with fun both on and off the stage, even extending into the audience at times to create an immersive, feel-good experience for all ages.

The production opened with a lively mash-up of “Don’t You Want Me” and “Party Rockers”, performed by the full cast and immediately setting an upbeat tone for the evening. It’s wonderful to see this small theatre company continuing to grow in number, with a blend of familiar faces and new talent gracing the stage.

The story flowed smoothly, helped by a hardworking cast who doubled as stage crew to keep transitions efficient. Visually, the show had beautifully printed backdrops that brought each location to life—complete with a cleverly hidden offstage cave designed with collapsing pieces to mimic the cave sealing itself. One of the standout staging moments came inside Aladdin’s cave, where glittering lights filled the stage to capture its magical atmosphere.

Costumes throughout were excellent, aiding each performer in bringing their character to life. Musical numbers were confidently delivered, supported by simple yet effective choreography suited to a range of abilities. Highlights included the beautifully harmonised “Who Will Buy” and the touching duet “Rewrite the Stars.”

The evening also carried a note of sadness as the company bid farewell to Ray Jones, performing Donkor for his final time treading the boards. A true gentleman of the stage, he will undoubtedly be greatly missed by Driffield Musical Theatre and its audiences.

Chloe Ellis led the cast with charm and heroism as Aladdin, while also taking on the role of choreographer. Holly Rebecca not only joined the production team but also brought warmth and optimism to Princess Ki-Lee, forming a strong partnership with Ellis. Completing the production team onstage, Linda Wilson delivered a surprisingly emotive performance as Jameela the camel—managing to evoke sympathy without a single line.

Charli Willis, playing both The Spirit of the Ring and the Genie of the Lamp, must have been dizzy switching roles, but did so with impressive energy and attitude. Jenny Townsend was every inch the strict and dignified Empress Pang Ting, while Eloise Bulmer portrayed the anxious Governess Felicity Upmore-Stoppidge with just the right balance of fretfulness and firmness. Youthful mischief came courtesy of Cherry Willis and Sheenagh Austin as the Royal Children.

Comedy was in safe hands with Lee Wilson as Inspector Lau Zee and Catherine Hudson as PC Du Wan—their timing was sharp, and their chemistry made their scenes a delight. Paul Thompson brought individuality and classic panto humour to Widow Twankie, while Melissa Hill, as Wishee Washee, was bursting with energy from start to finish, lighting up the stage every time she appeared. Finally, Ricky Thornhill shone as the villainous Abanazar, delivering just the right amount of dastardly evil to keep the boos coming.

Driffield Musical Theatre’s Aladdin was a heart-warming, humorous, and thoroughly enjoyable start to the festive season—proof once again of what this dedicated and passionate local company can achieve. A magical night out for the whole family.

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