The Lakeland Players truly rubbed the magic lamp with their production of Aladdin, a pun-packed extravaganza that transported audiences to the colourful chaos of old Peking. The Ardhowen Theatre's delightful pantomime, directed by Stephen Kettyles, was brimming with humour, hijinks, and just the right amount of sparkle.
From the moment the curtains rose, the energy was electric, and the story whisked the audience away to the home of Widow Twankey (Mark Allen), the laundrette owner with a penchant for glamour and a knack for stealing the spotlight. Allen was an absolute wash-out (in the best way possible), with an array of eye-popping costume changes and cheeky interactions with the audience, including a running gag with an older gentleman dubbed “sweet cheeks.” Every scene she was in cleaned up on laughs.
Wayne Moohan as Aladdin was every bit the dashing yet slightly hapless hero, head over heels for the radiant Princess Jasmine (Laoise Doherty). Their chemistry shone as Aladdin’s quest to win over Jasmine – and her no-nonsense mother, the Empress (Tracey Kernaghan) – was complicated by the arrival of the dastardly Abanazer, played with devilish delight by Julian Fowler. Fowler’s villainy was so perfectly over-the-top, it was hard not to boo with a grin. His Freddie Mercury-inspired performance had the audience clapping, cheering, and undoubtedly wondering, “Is this the real life, or just panto-fantasy?”
Adding to the fun were Wishee Washee (Joey Burns), Aladdin’s lovable, slightly chaotic sidekick, and Sing-Lo (Ashling Donohoe), whose onstage chemistry brought plenty of laughs and heart. Burns’ kung fu antics were a highlight, especially with his proud father in the audience. Meanwhile, the bumbling policemen Charlie Chan (Paul Doherty) and Chin Chin (Oisin Murphy) delivered slapstick comedy in spades.
No pantomime would have been complete without a dash of magic, and Dave Rees as the Genie brought plenty, appearing in a literal flash to grant wishes with a booming presence. Ellie Flanagan added a touch of mystery as the helpful enchantress armed with a magical ring, while Johnny Doherty as the mischievous Panda provided laughs and charm, proving that even in Peking, pandas knew how to steal the show.
The pinnacle of Aladdin came on its final night when Mrs. Luisa Lucchesi made her unforgettable stage debut. As Widow Twankey called out to the audience, the mention of the Golden Arrow sparked excitement, and there she was — radiant and poised, taking the stage to thunderous applause. Dressed like a true star, Mrs. Lucchesi joined in a joyful dance alongside her grandchildren, Matteo and Rena. Her delight was infectious, and the crowd was swept away by the magic of seeing a cherished local icon live her dream. It was the perfect crescendo to a stellar production.
The Lakeland Players outdid themselves with dazzling costumes, vibrant sets, and seamless special effects that drew audible gasps from the audience. The music, performed live, and directed by Attracta Flangan, kept toes tapping, and the energetic dancers - with choreography by Shauneen Hamilton - added sparkle to every scene. It was a feast for the senses, with something to delight everyone.
The show ran until Saturday, January 18, and tickets sold fast. For those who caught it, Aladdin at the Ardhowen Theatre was a guaranteed genie-us night out that left audiences laughing, singing, and shouting, “Oh, yes it was!”
Bravo to the Lakeland Players for delivering a panto that was simply majestic!
