I read an article about pantomimes, a few weeks back on BBC online which stated ‘panto is a great British tradition that deserves more respect’. I have to admit that I am a theatre snob and have always looked down on panto as the lowest form of theatre. . .I even tell my Drama students that it’s the only one form of theatre I dislike (much to their disgust!) But I decided to attend this production as I like the Garrick, I think their productions are great and thought, if anyone is going to do pantomime justice, and turn my opinions around, the Garrick will…and boy am I glad I did!
Unlike the musical version of Aladdin, this pantomime version is set in China but still maintains the same storyline of the poor boy who falls in love with the Emporer’s princess-daughter. The addition of pantomime stock characters such as the Dame and her comedy son, brought a different slant to the original story where they could act as narrators of the action and include comical interludes to keep the energy high and the audience entertained throughout. This really did feel like a variety show of sorts, with the story of Aladdin interwoven through it.
Joseph Meighan’s production is a spectacle to behold, and his team must be incredibly proud of their achievements. From the dazzling costumes to the magnificent backdrops, this show goes to no expense to create a professional quality of family entertainment. James Merrington’s lighting design was phenomenal from the laser effects to the chasing auditorium lighting, the technical elements were superb. One of my favourite moments and one which drew gasps of awe from the audience was the scene with the Chinese dragon, created through spectacular use of special effects.
Special effects have become the norm for pantomime and this was no exception. This production has pops, bangs and whizzes all over the show (quite literally!) From the arrival of the Genie to a magnificent flying carpet, this production didn’t allow the word ‘amateur’ to enter into anyone’s minds whilst watching. The quality of entertainment and special effects was second to none and would rival any show in commercial theatres.
Margaret Norris and her design team worked wonders on the costumes, which must have been a huge task as there were so many changes throughout the night. Each costume was equally as dazzling and engaging for the characters and the audience and an unlimited budget for the glitter and sequins, it would seem! Widow Twankey (the pantomime Dame) must have had at least seven costume changes and each one more ridiculous than the next but helped to create a wonderful character who stole the show, played by Phil Edwards.
James London’s role as Wishee Washee, Widow Twankee’s son was also brilliant in his vibrantly entertaining role. He had the children in the audience eating out of his hand from the start and this continued throughout the entire performance. Contrasting with this was the evil Sorcerer, Abanazer played by Wayne Holt. His monstrous voice and evil ways were hateful. . .and we loved it! Comedy duo PC Who and PC Wot, Edward Beasley and Jack Deighton-Brown had brilliant comedy timing and their farcical delivery of the ‘Who? What?’ dialogue, which really set the scene at the opening of the play. The protagonists of the performance, Princess Jasmine, Scarlett Dean and Aladdin, Natalie Hinchliffe were the finishing touches to an already brilliant cast.
The all-female pantomime dancers deserve a huge mention too as they were wonderful. Despite being so young, they exuded confidence and had superb stage presence, creating a wonderful rapport with the audience, especially in the sing-a-long sections. Their dancing was impeccable and their direction was faultless. I found my eye drawn to them whenever they were on stage. A multi-talented bunch to watch out for as they join the older Garrick production casts, I’m sure.
All in all, this was a fantastic night out. I came away from it feeling happy, Christmassy and with a whole new opinion of pantomimes. I wholeheartedly recommend families, young and old come to see this show as you won’t be disappointed.
Reviewer - Johanna Hassouna-Smith
on - 13/12/19
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