'Aladdin' Review
Esher theatre's debut pantomime is an evening of pure joy.
Venue: Esher Theatre. Get directions
Our verdict: ★★★★
Have you ever wanted to see an Irish Aladdin dance to Michael Jackson’s ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’ in Peking, China? Look no further than Esher theatre, where Aladdin is showing from the 10th to the 23rd of December.
This delightfully silly take on a panto classic is the first of its kind at the young theatre, which opened just last year. It’s a brilliant start to what will surely become a Christmas tradition for children and parents across Elmbridge.
Written by TV and theatre legend Eric Potts, himself a veteran panto dame, the show is packed with plenty of fun, laughter, and of course, audience participation.
Luke Cochlan, of Nova Jones fame, stars as a fresh-faced Aladdin, who falls in love with the beautiful princess Jasmine (played by the lovely Emma Hoeason) and gets caught up in the evil plans of the wicked Abaneezer.
It’s as cheesy and camp as a good pantomime should be, but rest assured that there’s far more giggles than groans.
The story will be familiar to many, but as its panto, there’s a few twists - for instance, this rendition has not one but two genies, a pair of incompetent policemen, and some memorable hijinks in a launderette. A medley of pop hits and classic showtunes provide the musical score, performed by a live five-piece band. It’s as cheesy and camp as a good pantomime should be, but rest assured that there’s far more giggles than groans.
For a small and relatively new venue, Esher Theatre has managed to attract a high-calibre cast. Audience members are spoilt by range of talents on display, many of whom have worked in television and the West End.
Cochlan brings a sprightly, boyish energy to the main role, making for the perfect fairy-tale prince. Jan Hunt gives an excellent performance as the grandiose and money-grubbing Empress, while the dame Widow Twanky is played with virtuosity by theatre star Bobby Crush. Peter Straker shines as the regal genie of the lamp, balanced by Sophie Duffet’s sassy, sharp-tongued genie of the ring. Graham Pountney is wonderful as the jolly Major Pong, whilst Richard Brimblecombe’s villainous Abaneezer is performed with dastardly charm. A personal favourite was Matthew Allen’s Wishee Washee, whose natural charisma and comic timing is sure to bring a laugh. In addition, the gifted young chorus dancers bring an infectious, electric energy to the dance numbers.
In these dark and gloomy times, Esher Theatre’s Aladdin pantomime is just the remedy. There’s not a hint of seriousness here; no trace of political allusion or attempted tugging of the heart strings. It’s a plain, uncomplicated good time, which is honestly kind of refreshing. Children will love the mischievous plot and slapstick humour, whilst adults will be kept. entertained by the peppering of local references and cheeky asides. By the end of the night, you’ll be singing and dancing along.
