Aladdin by Alan Frayn

With the help of their sponsor the stage had a new addition – a brand new proscenium red/gold stencilled, topped with the Little Common crest, created locally and opened into a well presented Chinese scene of Old Peking. A most comprehensive, easy to read glossy black and white programme was available.

Sound/lighting/effects organised by Maureen Payne and Steve Chapman, created atmosphere and were well timed. Clever set designs were created by Musical Director Margaret Smart and the team for colourful backdrops, using typical Chinese shapes and symbols, beautiful palace gardens, trellis work with flowers and fans – so much attention to detail. The cave drop in was first class, as was the magical sparkling sight of numerous treasure chests, with the ensemble also sparkling in tunics and turbans to match. Props all well-made included the lamp to rub, with Lyn Ford, Genie of the Lamp perfect in purple, appearing as if by magic, the executioner's axe plus a wonderful Malcolm’s washing machine devised for Wishee Washee, Kung Fu enthusiast. With the audience shouting ‘Arso’ on his every appearance he entered (during the amusing ‘In the Laundry’ scene), the machine, lit at the front together with accompanying noises off, in his whites and red socks and after the ‘cycle’ of course came out quite pink!  A good comedy part for Richard Baszczak. Great comedy duo came also in the form of whistle blowing, scooter riding officers of the law Hu Dun Pong namely Malcolm Atfield and Yu Dun Wong Bob Stewart – hilarious script beautifully delivered.  

Jac Young did a splendid job costuming the company - Chinese tunics complete with frog fastenings in abundance, matching head attire, comic characters, principals with good finishing features provided by cast members especially with hair, beards, and very suitable footwear.  Ken Duce was a most resplendent Emperor of Old Peking. 

In his debut role as Dame, Widow Twanky was confidently played by newcomer Brian Drayson, turned out in outrageous frocks with purple wig, long lashes, and wicked looks. good ‘dame’ make-up, silver boots, orange tights who immediately tormented poor Robert in the front row! Brian, I understand was responsible for the wonderful chests full of precious jewels. Also making her debut was Margaret Punter in supporting role sweet So-Shy, with Shirley and Courtney Markham joining Elisabeth Doust, Margaret Osgood and Shirley Hazleden in the chorus and behind the scenes Lindsey Wolton. 

Another Frayn panto with a good story line, full of fun, corn, and audience participation. Opening with Abanazar, Lewis Ikin gave a strong performance as the villain of the piece, wanting to rule the world singing a superb rendition of ‘Reviewing the Situation’, in the Street of 1000 Chopsticks!  He was immediately challenged by a delightful Spirit of the Ring played by Rona Morton performing always with a sparkle, in rhyme. Fleur Sayers performed a solid, cheeky Aladdin playing opposite Imogen Beale as a charming Princess Mandarin in her red finery, singing a lovely duet together ‘A Whole New World’. 

With Jenny at the helm of her favourite panto, taking up the challenge and together with a hardworking crew reaped the reward. Jenny was  also on the book keeping the script on the straight and narrow. Good use of freezes, balanced movement and well-rehearsed appropriate music and song accompanied by Margaret Smart on keyboard with Steve Chapman on electric guitar. A very charming solo dance to ‘China Tea’ from Imogen Vernon-Gill with Dad Gary Pope, a most convincing Executioner.

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