Aladdin
Worthing Pavilion Theatre
running until 1 January 2019
Tickets here
Aladdin, Pavilion Theatre Worthing.
Worthing stages again a sure-fire hit this year with its fastest-ever selling Christmas show Aladdin, working for the fourth year with seasoned Panto producers Paul Holman Associates and the local Northbrook MET college to produce some amazing artwork including a giant gold lamp in the adjacent Pavilion Bar themed like an Aladdin’s cave to whet the audience’s excitement.
Lee Latchford-Evans of Steps fame takes on the title role of Aladdin with enthusiasm, flying through the air on his magic carpet and triumphing in love despite all odds with the beautiful Princess Jasmine, played delightfully by CBEEBIES Rebecca Keatley. Wishee Washee is Mark Jones whose previous Panto experience provides the show with such delightful audience interaction and participation and reminds us of the sheer wonder of Panto. The Widow Twankey role is Dave Lynn, an experienced cabaret and pantomime artist, who keeps the adults entertained with his comic timing and double-entendre jokes. The huge Genie of the Lamp is voiced by the Famous voice of Brian Blessed. The star of the show though is Vikki Stone, a comedienne/writer, who at first seems an unlikely Abanazar but wins the audience over with her excellent threatening delivery, comic timing and stage presence.
As with every Panto, the music is kept current for the younger audience incorporating the current trend for flossing and even the Baby Shark song which the children all loved and joined in, and not forgetting the adults, they are treated to a spectacular Finale of Steps songs and dance moves.
So a good time was had by all in the true spirit of Panto. Poignantly, the Panto is linked to a local well-supported Children’s hospice, Chestnut Tree House, and all will work hard to raise extra funds this year for such a worthy cause.
Reviewer: Sandra Jenkins
☆☆☆☆
Aladdin is playing at the Pavilion Theatre, Worthing until January 1st 2019