"They have outdone themselves" at this year's Pompey Panto Aladdin which is making wishes come true | Review
If you’ve been to a Pompey Panto before at The Kings you might think you’ve got a good idea of what to expect.
And yes, the familiar elements are all present and correct in Aladdin – Jack Edwards as the dame, the ghost bench scene, a few obligatory digs at Southampton, and so on.
However, they’ve really outdone themselves with the rendition of The 12 Days of Christmas this time around.
It’s a chaotic spectacle at the best of times – dozens of loo rolls are flying straight away, with many clearly bringing their own from home. But the team have upped the ante to the scene this time around. It would be unfair to say much more, but it really brings the house down.
Jack Edwards is back as “the fat man in a dress” for his 11th year – Widow Twankey. And it’s obvious why he’s a staple of the show – he works the crowd wonderfully and the audience adores him. As usual, his outfits are incredible and probably deserve their own separate billing. And of course, the “man cam” to help the widow find a man is back – full credit to Martin in the front row for fully entering into the spirit.
But Edwards isn’t the only star of the show – this year’s cast is stacked with talent.
Shaun Williamson is back for more, two years after playing the titular Captain Hook at the venue. This time around he’s the evil sorcerer AbaBarrynazar, a less than subtle nod to his much-loved EastEnders role. He relishes all the “boos” thrown his way and chews the scenery with aplomb.
Leo Abbad makes a decent job of Aladdin – the male lead is often a thankless task when surrounded by the more comedic roles, but Abbad holds his own.
His flying carpet scene to Defying Gravity – a nice nod to the film of the moment, Wicked – is well done.
Princess Jasmine is played with vigour by Leonie Wall who has a beautiful singing voice.
It’s great to see Jacob Bailey back again too after last year’s turn as Caroline The Cat in Dick Whittington, this time he gets his share of laughs as PC World.
TV personality Rustie Lee as The Genie of The Lamp is, well, Rustie – big voice, bigger laugh. You know what you’re getting with her – she’s a force of nature.
If I have any complaint about Spirit of The Ring, Esme Bowdler, it’s only that we don’t get to hear more of her singing voice. As runner-up on ITV’s Mamma Mia: I Have a Dream, she’s definitely got the vocal chops.
And Joe Pollard as Wishee Washee brings the madcap energy you’d hope to this deeply silly role – he was my kids’ favourite of the night.
If you’re wishing for a perfect panto to go see this Christmas, then consider your wish granted by Aladdin.
The panto runs until December 31, with tickets from £10. Go to kingsportsmouth.co.uk.