There’s nothing to endorse the Pantomime popularity with younger audiences than to be sat in a full Theatre at 10.30 am on a wet miserable Monday morning surrounded by primary school children who are ready to enjoy themselves and participate in the regular “he’s behind you” and oh they certainly did.

Shaun Williamson returns to King’s Theatre Portsmouth this year in the role of Aba Barrynazar ( play on his Eastenders character) alongside Rusty Lee in the role of Genie of the Lamp.

Aladdin (Leo Abad) longs to meet the beautiful Princess Jasmine (Leonie Wall) in the hope that age will fall in love with him and they will live happily ever after. However, this Pantomime land and the road to a happy ever after is paved with challenges and a baddie who tries to scupper a happy ending. With the help of The Genie of the Lamp and the Spirit of the Ring played by Esme Bowdler the odds are in their favour.

Williamson portrays an excellent baddie in this year’s Pantomime and the audience had plenty of booing and jeering ready for him each time he entered the stage.

However, the comedy star of the show is the incredibly funny Joe Pollard who looks incredibly similar to comedian Joe Pasquale from his mannerisms to the well-placed comedy delivery offering a strong resemblance. Pollard has a strong Pantomime career ahead of him.

Jack Edwards brings his Pantomime Dame charm back for his eleventh year this season and does a fantastic job in the role of Aladdin and Wishee Washee’s Mum, Widow Twanky. However, do be warned he has his man cam” and there’s no hiding from his gaze. The teacher in question today was a fantastic sport and played along brilliantly.

Anyone familiar with the “12 Days of Christmas” song performed at King’s Theatre knows what happens on day five with the toilet rolls. The primary school in the Royal Circle came prepared and launched their own supply back down towards the stage. It was such a sight and brilliant to see them fully committed to the Pantomime experience.

Director Michael Strasson has brought together a strong and balanced Pantomime cast. The comedy delivery is well-timed and above all the entire cast appears to be having a great time and enjoying their roles. Accompanied by a fabulous collection of costumes created by the head of wardrobe Jacqeline Willis.

There’s something for all the family in this year’s production and plenty of humour and laugh-out-loud one-liners. Although, taking your own toilet rolls is optional I guess!

For more information and to book tickets for Aladdin and future productions at King’s Theatre Portsmouth please use the link below.

Five Stars

https://www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk/