Aladdin

A really up to date script with some good “punch lines” written by Alan P Frayn was a plus in this very colourful Pantomime.

A strong line of Principals who did well in their respective roles took the show along at a good pace and were playing to a very full theatre.

Paul Mills as Abanazar and Charlie Vaughan as Widow Twankey did extremely well although I did feel they both had to work hard to gain a rapport with the audience.   I was very impressed with Charlie’s dancing and general lively dashing about the stage –a very lively Widow Twankey.

Abanazar was supposed to be the “Baddie” and could have been even more menacing at times to stamp his character firmly on the audience from the very start, but the character grew as the show progressed.

Katie Leech as Aladdin and Alex Hooker as Princess Jasmine both had good singing voices and their duets were very tuneful and pleasant.

I enjoyed the interpretations of Yu-Dun-Wong and Yu-Dun-Pong played by Vicki Huxter & Greg Potter, most amusing.

Young Aaron Embleton as Spring Roll was very involved in the action with a very cheeky manner throughout, and Peter Norfolk as Wishee Washee and Angie Porter as So-Shy gave good supporting roles.

The singing and dancing was most enjoyable and the small band under the direction of Hector Moyes provided a good balance and great tempo’s as well.

All other supporting roles were well played and of course essential to the plot.

The costumes,set and lighting were all excellent.One or two “blips” with the sound here and there but generally well balanced.

Well done to Sam McCarthy with his direction on the show.

A huge audience was very encouraging to see, proving that Pantomime is alive and kicking, and a very essential part of the season around all the festivities.

I wish the society well in their forthcoming productions and thank you for a most entertaining show.

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