This really delivers what it promises - “traditional, spectacular family pantomime” - emphasising spectacular. The great set is backdrop to Nigel Ellacott’s continual kaleidoscope of no-expense-spared, colourful, shiny, glamorous costumes with added bling. Courtesy of the theatre’s own amazing, historical treasures and Soho’s Mr Behal.
There is immediate impact as Loraine Porter’s warm hearted Ilford Fairy, with a neverending stream of EastEnders puns, is matched by Isobel Hurll’s imperious, impressively elegant, glamorously beautiful Queen Rat.
This highly visual, furiously paced show has great fun with the Queen Rat’s Squeakest Link.
Adam Gaskin is an appealing, extra fluffy Cat, Owen Smith shows comedy talent as Rat-a-Two-ee, Philip Allinson is a strong Sultan. Robert Quarry is idiotic as Bosun Bilge.
Lee Bright’s likeable, handsome hero teams nicely with Laura Medforth’s jolly Alice and both sing well. Nick Wilton’s rotund Sarah specialises in comic anarchy. Nicholas Pound’s Alderman combines good looking maturity and a gorgeous singing voice.
Busy, brilliant lighting includes a great disco number. Mark Brock’s inventive, inhouse laser light show plus an imaginatively conceived black light undersea scene advance the plot. Stuart Rush is the musical driving force. Loraine Porter’s energetic choreography even has tap dancing Beefeaters.
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Production information can change over the run of the show.
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