Sleeping Beauty

On 19/12/2025, I had the pleasure of attending “Sleeping Beauty”, the annual pantomime presented by In Your FacE Theatre Seaham. It’s always a pleasure to attend this Group, not only because they perform 2 minutes down the road from home, however this production proved itself to be a masterclass in the art of pantomime, achieving a near-perfect balance of tradition, innovation, and family entertainment.

The direction of “Sleeping Beauty” was nothing short of exemplary from Charlie Younger. The pace throughout was spot-on, maintaining energy and engagement from curtain up to the final bows. Transitions were seamless, ensuring the audience remained fully immersed. The director’s vision was clear: to deliver a classic panto with a fresh, vibrant feel, and this was realised in every scene and the durations just right, no “lagging” moments and plenty of quick witted local and naughty comedy which kept the audience giggling throughout.

The script by Reece Sibbald was a triumph, packed with witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and plenty of opportunities for audience participation. The story was well-structured, honouring traditional elements of the fairytale while injecting contemporary humour and topical references that delighted both children and adults. The storytelling was clear and engaging, keeping even the youngest audience members enthralled. Real thought and attention to detail had gone in, even to the selections of music between scenes (Traitors I believe!?).

Each character was beautifully drawn and perfectly cast. The principal players delivered standout performances, bringing depth and warmth to their roles. Fairy Kindheart opened the show, beautifully played and acted by Chloe Marks, Princess Aurora was played by the beautiful Lucy Stephenson and Prince Neville by the ever versatile Nathan Johnson.  The role of Princess Aurora was double case and played on alternate evenings by Amelia-Grace Barton.  It was a delight to see Peter Baker back on top form performing as Little Bobby, he’s very much a Seaham delight and I was thrilled to see him back on stage on top form.  Not so much with the supersoaker as I’m fairly sure he took aim at Peter Oliver and I throughout! This role was also double cast and played on alternative evenings by Helen Brewis.  Hollie Wilson is always incredibly strong on stage, but especially so as Queen Crackers and I was again thrilled that Hollie offered a BSL interpretation of the final numbers.  The Dame Nurse Nelly was very much a highlight played by Karl Smith, bursting with charisma and comic timing, with quick and sharp cues which are so essential for a Dame and often missed. The villain, Carabosse played by Jade Cadson who was absolutely unrecognisable in costume managed just the right blend of menace and mischief, addressing the audience as “mingers” much to our delight, without ever frightening the little ones despite being really ill through the performance week.  However I have to say that Ian Brewis playing Lambton and Norma Ord playing Tommy Timpson absolutely stole the show!  Ian was so funny, versatile and dexterous as the villain’s henchman, his dual with Prince Neville was a real highlight, so well acted, and Norma utterly hilarious as Tommy the deaf guard of the castle. The chemistry among the cast was evident, with strong ensemble work and sparkling individual moments.

Choreography was inventive and polished, with routines that showcased the talents of the company without ever overreaching. Dance numbers were energetic and inclusive, allowing both seasoned performers and younger cast members their moment in the spotlight. The ensemble work was tight and enthusiastic, adding to the overall sense of fun and spectacle.  Dancers Nina Bailey, Abby Bell, Amelia Cattermole, Isabelle Elliot, Lexi Neasham and Evie Thompson were superb, well rehearsed and polished with beaming smiles, and I loved their performance numbers.  Well done to choreographers Steph Christie, Chloe Marks and Charlie Younger for delivering such a polished performance. I was dying to join in with Abracadabra.

The ”If I were not in panto” number, often used as a filler for scene changes for the finale was probably one of the most clever, intricate and utterly hilarious versions I’ve ever seen.

Costumes were a visual treat, bursting with colour and imagination. Each character’s look was thoughtfully designed to complement their role and personality, from the resplendent fairy costumes to the outrageous ensembles worn by the Dame. The set and props, though simple, were used resourcefully and contributed to the immersive atmosphere.

What truly set this production apart was the warm, inclusive family feel. From the moment we entered the theatre, it was clear that In Your Face Theatre Seaham had crafted an experience for all ages. The frequent and good-natured audience participation, combined with a sense of camaraderie among cast and crew, made for a joyous communal event. Laughter rang out throughout, and the children were utterly spellbound.

“Sleeping Beauty” by In Your Face Theatre Seaham stands as a shining example of what local pantomime can and should be. Every element—from script and performance to choreography and costume—came together to create a magical, memorable evening. It was as close to perfection as pantomimes get, and I look forward with eager anticipation to next year’s productions, there’s one heck of an exciting year ahead for them!

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.