Aladdin

I love pantomime and always have. I quite like Christmas shows too but they are quite different. Emporium manage to pull of a clever hybrid and this Aladdin is packed with fun. Whilst not following the traditional script one might expect from this classic panto, it does retain a great deal of the spirit of that panto – but with added charm. You don’t get a soap star and thank heavens for that but you do get a really stunning set and beautiful costumes from Gary Blair, and hooray, at last Emporium have a lot of lights and they are put to excellent effect. So overall it looks splendid.
Next the script, and Doug Devaney has rammed this one full of gags, double entendre, clever word play and a few of those much loved traditions – “It’s behind you” etc. He has created a fun story that works on two levels, for both children and adults, which a classic panto always did. And he has given the cast so much to work with, lots of business, plenty silliness and a few moments that will soften the heart. The same can be said of the songs, all new, which are excellently performed (although the drummer could be a little quieter at times – sorry!). Director James Weisz has drilled the entire production to a performance peak that throughout the run will get even slicker. He really understands how this kind of show works.
Last but definitely not least the cast. The chorus of girls are not only cute they are very funny and the team that I saw have great character – especially the pie girl! Pip Henderson as Electa is a classy baddy worthy of every hiss and boo as she menaces the cast and audience. Mike Goodenough brings the role of the Sultan to life and his Genie is a cleverly camp creation in a very funny costume indeed. What he lacks in singing voice is more than made up for by his comic presence although he is perhaps mugging to the audience just a little too much.
Faye Ellen is cute as a button as Jasmine and has the sweetest voice and that voice is matched by Tyler Kennington as Aladdin. He is both charming and funny and his athleticism adds a great deal to the whole.
Finally Rory Maguire who plays Rik (or as I would like to say Wishy Washy). Well there’s nothing wishy-washy about his comic performance. He delivers it with panache, great timing, great dancing and a real understanding of slapstick. He can sing too. Let’s not say that he steals the show but he certainly pilfers some of the best moments.
Yet again Emporium have pulled off a panto that warmed my heart – I might even go back and see it all again – it’s that good!
9 December
Emporium
Andrew Kay
5 stars