Here’s a show that really stands out, scoring highly on every level. There isn’t a weak link in the cast and together they really make this panto come alive.
It helps that it’s blessed with a fine Widow Twankey, courtesy of Paul Morse. This talented young actor brings a dynamism to a role that is often laboured by older players. His Wishee Washee, James Campbell, also works well in the mad-cap comedy routines. George Telfer is equally commanding, bringing just the right touch of scary villainy to his Abanazer. Catriana Sandison has a delightful singing voice for her Aladdin role, as does Alexandra Waite-Roberts as Princess Belroubador.
Much credit for this cracking show must also go to Debra James for producing a sparkling script that is mercifully free from most of the old, threadbare jokes that turn up year after year in too many shows. The gag-rate is impressive and if one joke falls flat, several better ones are trotted out to keep the audience chuckling.
Choreographer Sallie Warrington has an excellent team of dancers and, to set the whole thing off, the sets and costumes are delightful. This high-energy show is fresh, fun and utterly uplifting.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
Content is copyright © 2012 The Stage Media Company Limited unless otherwise stated.
All RSS feeds are published for personal, non-commercial use. (What’s RSS?)
