Monday 4 December 2023

PANTOMIME REVIEW: Sleeping Beauty - The Theatre Royal, Wakefield.

 

In the heart of Wakefield, Theatre Royal hosted a spellbinding rendition of Sleeping Beauty, seamlessly blending tradition with a creative twist. Directed by Matt Aston, this enchanting pantomime unfolded as a magical tapestry, showcasing the talents of a stellar cast and crew. 

The historic Theatre Royal Wakefield, with its opulent backdrop, added grandeur, creating a stage where creativity, tradition, and laughter harmoniously converged. 

Under the musical direction of Jim Lunt, the score elevated the experience, adding depth to the narrative. Louise Denison's choreography brought a dynamic and visually fabulous layer to the production, turning dance sequences into highlights. 

With a script by Chris Hannon, who also features as Dame Nanny Nora, that had the audience giggling throughout, intertwined pop culture references, swipes at political figures and of course, the audience. Hannon, teamed with Chester the Jester, Sam Nixon, made for a brilliantly entertaining double act, proving their worth of their respective BAFTAs. 

Beyond the enchanting performances, it's noteworthy that Sleeping Beauty's tale, dating back over 600 years, received a fresh breath of life in this production. While embracing tradition, the pantomime breathed new energy into the story, making it a timeless experience for all. 

This season’s pantomime from the Theatre Royal was a triumph of creativity, talent, and tradition. The collaborative efforts of the cast and crew resulted in a magical journey that left the audience full of festive joy. This show not only honoured the rich history of the fairytale but also showcased the vibrant and dynamic future of pantomime in Wakefield.

Reviewer - Simon Oliver
on - 30.11.23

1 comment:

  1. Chris Hannon is one of the best in the Country - can't wait to see the show!

    ReplyDelete