Aladdin Review

Aladdin at the Mitchell Arts Centre is very much a Panto with Stoke-on-Trent at its heart.

There are references to the Pottery industry throughout, as well as buoyant songs about the local towns and businesses.

And while this is not a huge theatre the stage setting, strobe lighting affects and cast all combine for a truly festive treat.

The story sees Aladdin fall in love with Princess Jasmine but there are many adventures and obstacles to pass before the two can be together.

Aladdin’s mum Widow Twankey tries her best to keep her son occupied at the laundry business, but after the magic lamp, which Aladdin was watching over, lands into the wrong hands an adventure beckons for all.

Panto villain Abanazar takes Princess Jasmine hostage and is booed at every opportunity by the audience, young and old. In order to rescue his love, Aladdin seeks the help of Genie of the lamp, played by Matthew Dye, who uses his magic to transport his master away from Stoke-on-Trent to where the Princess, and Genie’s Wife and children, are being held in Egypt.

Aladdin and Abanazar battle it out before anyone is safe and eventually the Princess and Aladdin have the final say.

This is the second year TLC Pantomimes have staged a production at the Mitchell Arts Centre and it was a sheer delight to watch.

Magical scenes are created in simple stage settings, Widow Twankey’s costumes are bright and wonderful, a Mastermind scene with Abanazar and Princess Jasmine is comedy genius and the vocals of Catherine O’Reilly, as Genies Wife, raise the roof.

Radio Stoke’s very own Den Siegertsz is a joy to watch as the Emperor, whilst Tim Churchill is outstanding as Abanazar.

All in all the cast is fantastic and as well as being impressed by the magic created, the humour throughout is spot on.

Thoroughly enjoyable Panto with a traditional Stokie twist.

Aladdin is at the Mitchell Arts Centre, in Hanley until 31 December 2019. More details here.