Going to the Christmas panto at Buxton is always one of my favourite things to do over the festive season. A slice of traditional family fare is always on offer and is as welcome as any other treat that may be available.
This year the ancient Borough of Buxtonia is home to the penurious Widow Twankey (James Holmes) who is so poor that she has to have a second source of income at the local supermarket to add to her earnings from her laundry to support her two sons Aladdin (Reuben Leonard) and Suds (Max Eade) not to mention her streaming platform.
Aladdin has dreams of escaping from his life of drudgery and is particularly excited to hear that a Princess (Charis Stockton) is to visit town. But with no money to pay for the Princess’ hand there seems little chance that the love at first sight encounter with royalty will get beyond the first base.
A glimmer of hope is lit for the dashing hero when his evil uncle Avajaffa (Reece Duncan) suggests that there is a way for our dashing hero to gain riches beyond his wildest dreams. But can his relative be trusted?
Regulars to pantos will know that the answer is in the negative and Aladdin has to hope that the magic solution offered by the Spirit of the Ring (Cait O’Malley) will be powerful enough to overcome the wicked wiles of Avajaffa and the wishes of the Genie (Emily Waddington) who changes her allegiance as different masters take control of the lamp.
Buxton’s adaptation of Aladdin ticks every box on a panto bingo card. Holmes is now truly regarded as one of the great dames of modern theatre. His humour is very much for the adult members of the audience but never goes near the knuckle with his comments and asides while Eade is very much a favourite with the younger audience members. The role of Suds means that Eade has to lead the interaction with the children and he does this with an effervescent and very likeable approach to his role.
Duncan is the panto villain par excellence while O’Malley plays his perfect opponent with a beautiful voice and movement that allows the young audience members to believe that all will be safe. Above all, the younger onlookers want to see the Princess get her man.
Leonard and Stockton have a very good onstage chemistry and demonstrate good vocals and movement together. They make it very believable that a happy ever after is the true path for the pair.
With a very lively ensemble and excellent contributions from all cast members Director Paul Kerryson has produced another festive hit for Buxton. Choreography from Tracey Iliffe had the stage awash with colour, Richard Atkinson and Rickey Long arranged a score that was exactly right for the occasion, Vicki Louise Smith designed some visually beautiful costumes and all was enhanced by lighting and sound designed by Tom Davis and Eoin O’Grady.
With many opportunities for audience interaction and two wow moments – the magic carpet and the fight against evil conducted by Aladdin – the Opera House has shown just why it is home to the traditional panto.
The Opera House is a beautiful place for theatrical magic that will live in the minds for a long time should be made. With a handsome leading man, a gorgeous princess and all of the ingredients for a panto to give pleasure to those from six to ninety-six, Aladdin has the beauty that such a great theatre deserves.
Highly entertaining and thoroughly recommended.
Aladdin continue until January 1st and has a running time of approximately two hours including interval. For ticket information contact buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
