All the ingredients for the perfect panto
Aladdin, Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford
This year’s pantomime at the Yvonne Arnaud will certainly not disappoint the children or the grown-ups, with something for everyone. It has the perfect concoction of a dashing, thigh-slapping Aladdin, superbly played by Emma Thornett, a beautiful Princess Jasmine and a delightful and magical genie. The wicked wizard Abanazar, is a devilishly evil character, brought to life by Kit Hesketh-Harvey. Abanazar sneers sarcastically at the audience and his cackling laughter is enough to send shivers down the little ones sides, encouraging a cacophonie of ‘boos’.
The traditional Twelve Days of Christmas has been updated for a newer version, where “a bra that was meant to hold three” replaces the partridge in a pear tree, and every time we get to five, five custard pies are splattered all over poor Wishee Washee’s face. The stage becomes such a muddle of props and custard pies, it’s no wonder Wishee Washee slid right off the stage. This is pure unadulterated silliness, and the crowd loved it.
As for the story, evil Abanazar tricks the young Aladdin into believing he can make him rich, convincing him to go deep inside a cave to find the magic lamp. However, all is not lost. With some help from the audience of course, Aladdin uses the ring to summon up the Genie, Janie Dee. Partial to a drop of fizz, the sparkling and charming Genie casts a magical spell over the audience and you will be entertained as if by magic.
Genie of the Lamp JANIE DEE
Abanazar KIT HESKETH-HARVEY
Aladdin EMMA THORNETT
Widow Twankey PETER GORDON
Wishee Washee JAMIE BROOK
PC Pongo RAY GRIFFITHS
Spirit of the Ring RACHEL KNOWLES
Princess Jasmine CHARLOTTE O’ROURKE