ALADDIN, ABANAZAR’S REVENGE

WRANGLERS THEATRE COMPANY
ALADDIN, ABANAZAR’S REVENGE By Geoff Coventry
Performed at The Muse Theatre, Plymouth
As seen by Nina Jarram, NODA SW District 3 Representative on
Wednesday 3 rd December 2025
Directed by Wendy Holmes
Choreographed by Wendy Holmes, Claire Field and Helen Netting

The Wranglers’ latest pantomime proved once again that this company
knows exactly how to use its performance space to full creative effect.
From the moment the red velvet curtain swept aside to reveal a
beautifully framed vision of China, our home for the evening, the
audience was transported. The versatile set, a clever blend of cloth and
flats hidden neatly behind those tabs, displayed the company’s
trademark ingenuity.
We were immediately welcomed by an impressive array of costumes
awash in reds and blacks, accompanied by stunning vocals, a sea of red
lipstick, and sparkling stage presence. The choreography was a
particular triumph: layered expertly to allow every performer, regardless
of age or experience, to shine. The thoughtful differentiation and the
inspired use of props brought excitement to every number, with
transitions that kept the action fresh, engaging, and true to the energetic
spirit of pantomime.
Of course, no panto is complete without its Dame, and here we were
treated to a seasoned performer whose jokes came thick and fast. His
ostentatious costumes and delightfully over-the-top headwear were a
visual feast. Meanwhile, the actor playing Wishy Washy delivered a
masterclass in comic timing. Tackling a script laden with innuendo, he
built an instant rapport with the audience, firing off puns at a pace that
would give Tim Vine a run for his money. His understanding of the panto
genre was unmistakable.

The “Toxic brothers,” our token villains, brought their own charm to the
chaos. Though a few nerves were visible, each actor carved out distinct
characteristics, adding depth to the boo-worthy mob. The actor playing
Vicious stood out for me with his sharp facial expressions and a strong
vocal performance, while the actor playing Abanazar revelled in his
sarcastic wickedness, confidently working the crowd with classic panto
flair. The company is indeed fortunate to have such a strong contingent
of men who can both sing and move.
The ladies in waiting were equally strong, enhanced by a standout
performance from the actor playing Desire, who reminded us that the
Dame need not have a monopoly on drag. Move over, RuPaul—this was
a full triple threat, delivered with confidence and charisma. The
Wranglers’ own version of the Dream Boys was another memorable
moment; though the choreography wasn’t the tightest, the audience
certainly wasn't watching their feet.
One of the highlights of the evening was the “Tell Him That” skit, an
intricate and technical play on words. The trio executed it with sharp
chemistry, well-timed eye rolls, and vibrant electric-green eye makeup
that added extra flair.
The evening’s biggest “aaahhh” moment came courtesy of the smallest
Wranglers, who stole hearts with a topical K-Pop number, complete with
irresistible waves to parents, fidgety costume mishaps, and all the charm
of young performers finding their feet.
We were thoroughly entertained with a true showstopper with a
spectacular tap routine from 42nd Street. The choreography captured
pure Broadway magic, performed with professionalism and flair,
complemented by outstanding work from the wardrobe department. The
Genie, reimagined as a futuristic gold-and-purple Willy Wonka, brought a
laid-back Aussie vibe to the role, an unexpected but endearing twist.

The actor playing the Spirit of the Ring, delivered a confident, articulate
performance, fully embracing the pantomime brief, a vital anchor amid
the show’s energetic whirlwind. The script itself was packed with gags,
from topical quips about the Royal Family to an Edinburgh-Fringe-worthy
joke about washing machines that live longer with Cal Gone. I nearly
spat out my chow mein.
Act I closed with a dazzling routine led by the intermediate dancers,
giving the Genie another chance to shine with crisp, well-drilled moves.
The clever hat and kick-line sequence was a choreographic delight. Just
when it seemed the spectacle had peaked, a magnificent Chinese
dragon entered through the audience, beautifully designed,
magnificently operated, and giving the backstage team a well-deserved
moment in the spotlight. Their work throughout was exemplary, with
seamless scene changes and impactful pyrotechnics.
Ping and Pong, our stock comedy double characters, delivered the
expected groans and giggles, balancing perfectly with the more
grounded performances from Aladdin and Jasmine. Playing the “straight”
roles in a panto is no easy task, but both actors held their own,
demonstrating convincing chemistry and giving the storyline heart amid
the madness.
In all, this was an exceptionally well-produced and directed show. Every
piece of the pantomime puzzle, the script, costumes, music,
choreography, scenery, lighting, sound, and performance, fitted together
with care and creativity. This is community theatre at its finest:
collaborative, inclusive, and bursting with opportunity. Watching young
performers hone their craft alongside experienced role models is a joy,
and a reminder that the stars of tomorrow often find their beginnings in
places just like this.
Well done Wranglers. It's a 6, 7 from me.

Nina Jarram

PLEASE NOTE: Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what he sees at the
performance in question. The reviewer may have received information in advance of the performance
and it is inevitable that his assessment will be affected by that knowledge.

The N.O.D.A. Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall production and in
particular the performance viewed. It should be remembered that any review of this nature can only
be objective as far as the techniques used during the performance observed. Any criticisms
expressed may not have been valid at other performances, and are only made to encourage higher
standards in Amateur Theatre.
It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and
encouraged you to greater achievements in the future and that the observations made by the reviewer
will prove helpful in improving future productions.

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