Pantomime season is now well underway across the country. NewVictoria Theatre Woking is hosting Peter Pan The High-Flying Panto Experience. Starring Paul Chuckle (Starkey), Antonio Du Beke (Smee) and Nigel Ellacott (Mrs Smee).

Archie Durrant takes to the sky as Peter Pan the boy who never grew up. Full of energy and enthusiasm Durrant makes an excellent Peter Pan. An incredibly talented dancer, and singer and looks completely at ease when he takes to the sky on his journey back to Neverland.

Tinkerbell (Georgia Brierley Smith) on rollerskates glides across the stage as she looks after Pan and The Lost Boys. Skating allows the suspension of disbelief that she’s fluttering back and forth across the stage which is very effective.

Hook played by Bob Harms delivers an excellent “pantomime baddie”. Dressed to perfection in a full pirate costume with the infamous “hook hand” he hatches his plan to capture Pan while avoiding his nemesis The Crocodile!

Every Pantomime’s crowning glory should be the Dame. Nigel Ellacott’s performance as Mrs Smee is excellent. Each time Ellacott entered the stage wearing another gorgeous outfit, I lost count of how many costume changes took place throughout the performance.

The combination of Strictly Come Dancing and Chucklevision theme music in the same production isn’t something you hear often. Combining two well-known shows is a brilliant way to appeal to audiences of all ages. Chuckle and Du Beke do not let the fans down.

Chuckle’s performance and interaction with the audience throughout the Pantomime highlights why he has had such a long and successful career in children’s entertainment. Simply brilliant!

Production manager Chris Buffham and the Orchestra led by Musical Director Ian Townsend have created a fantastic 2023 Pantomime experience. One that can be enjoyed by all the family. There’s a great mixture of children’s and adult humour throughout the performance. With plenty of opportunities to join in with “Oh no it isn’t”.

For more information on this year’s Pantomime and future productions at New Victoria Theatre Woking please use the link below.

Happy Christmas.

Five Stars.

Photo credit Ian Olsson.

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