After the opening few minutes, I am willing some magic to be injected into this story and, as if the Genie of the Lamp himself has intervened, my wish is granted. What emerges from then on is a wonderful example of what can be achieved with money spent on high production values rather than on the high wages of big stars.
This production upholds the finest traditions of pantomime, including loads of audience participation, lively musical numbers and bags of comedy, complete with an all too rare spot of slapstick.
With his booming voice and over the top persona, Leon Craig must be the hardest working Widow Twankey around, putting an incredible amount of energy into the part and ensuring that the laughs keep coming.
He is ably assisted by the talented Craig Hollingsworth as a wacky Wishee Washee. More laughter is provided by the exaggerated Welshness of Jessica Sandry as So-Shi, while Tachia Newall, in his panto debut, is a brilliant dancing Genie of the Lamp.
The fine cast’s high-energy input is complemented by surprisingly elaborate sets that include an amazing dragon-mouthed mountain. Equally jaw-dropping is the memorable sight of a full-sized model elephant trundling on stage with Princess Badroulbadour (Katie Sheridan) sitting on top.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
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