Aladdin and the Princesses' Ball

Aladdin and the Princesses’ Ball, performed by Curtain Up! Productions in conjunction with members of South Downe Stage School, was the last in a long line of pantos I’ve had the privilege to attend this year, but it was worth the wait. From the prolific pen of Director Ian Clark, it adds a twist to the traditional story of Aladdin by ending with a Cinderella-style ball to bring Aladdin and Princess Jasmine together.

We were warmly welcomed into the very comfortable Rowlands Castle Parish Hall.  When the curtains opened, we were greeted by a good quality, colourful backdrop which was used throughout the show. Props (Helen Dulake and Jamie Ebdon) were excellent – especially the treasure in the cave – and the costumes (thanks to Johanna Whatmore, Hilary Glanville, Emma Hunt and Eclectia) were bright and colourful - the princesses’ dresses in the ball scene being particularly stunning. Lighting throughout (Keith Dulake) was good too and sound – effects and backing tracks (Paul Goldthorpe) was at just the right level.

First on was Rachael Wilkie as the evil Abanazer – very effectively made up and well versed in how to whip up the audience to booing and hissing her every move. She was ably assisted by Emma Hunt as the Genie of the Ring moving very fluidly around the stage. What would a panto be without a Dame? Jonathan Nash as Widow Twankey filled this role admirably, kitted out with some wonderfully outrageous outfits and headgear. He had a nice, relaxed relationship with the audience and so I was surprised to find out later that it was his first time on stage playing Dame. Experienced actor Ryan Richards was instantly likable as Twankey’s son Aladdin, giving him a believable innocence. His scenes with Princess Jasmine – a beautiful, sparky performance by Lorna Hancock – were really touching and their voices blended well in their songs.

Tricia Roberts and Hilary Glanville as Widow Twankey’s (dare I call them ugly?) sisters Elvira and Evadne brought some great humour to the proceedings, as did Lee Hunt as Wishee Washee, though I felt his undoubted talents were rather underused by the script. We had to wait a while to meet her, but Johanna Whatmore as Guylian the Genie of the Lamp was well worth the wait. Such a spirited performance with great comic timing and stage presence, that really raised the role of Genie above the norm. Sadly, I don’t have room to mention everyone, but I can’t ignore the characterful performance Nadine Darnley De Salis gave as Bueno the Monkey!

The members of South Downe Stage School added youthfulness and vitality to the show. They demonstrated great confidence and ability every time they were on stage, their choreography was well executed, especially when you think how small the stage is. Everyone was giving it their all throughout the show.

Thank you Curtain Up! and South Downe Stage School for a great evening’s entertainment, full of fun and laughter, song and dance, and who couldn’t do with a bit more of that these days!

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