Harold Pinter hosts the outrageously funny adult Pantomime Sleeping Beauty by TuckShop. With a touch of pantomime magic and a large amount of suspension of disbelief, the stage becomes a kingdom fit for a King and Queen to host TuckShop 2023 pantomime.
Fairy Fabulous (Michael Marouli) lives up to her name throughout the performance. Beautiful sparkling outfits, quick wit and festive humour.
Queen Camilla (Kate Butch) and her husband King Clyde (LoUis CYfer) welcome their daughter into the world, who is lucky to make it to sixteen the number of times the Queen let her slip out of her hands onto the floor.
Victoria Scone in the role of the “bad” fairy Godmother Carabosse is fabulous. Dressed in black leather with fluorescent green finishes. Oh my, they looked stunning and were one of the most likeable bad fairy Godmothers I have ever watched.
When Kitty Scott Claus in the role of Princess Beauty turns sixteen the spell cast on her by Carabosse when she was born comes to fruition and the beautiful princess puts herself to bed for her spell induced long sleep!
The storyline is sped up and some of the familiar “facts” are removed or slightly changed. However, Adhering to the original wouldn’t fit with the drag storyline. There were a few “fluffed” lines throughout the evening although I would not be surprised if it was done for comedic effect as it added a lot of laughter in the auditorium.
Director Chris Clegg has bought a huge helping of festive cheer to the stage to brighten up the period between Christmas and New Year. With the rapport of the cast onstage they all appeared to be really enjoying themselves.
For the avid Drag Race fans there are plenty of in-house jokes between the cast and references to previous winners. All of this was lost on me but I observed those who knew appreciated the references.
Playing until the 31st December 2023 this makes a perfect pantomime to finish off the year with. For more information and to book tickets please visit the link below.
Four Stars.
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/sleeping-beauty/harold-pinter-theatre/
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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