EPSTEIN THEATRE, LIVERPOOL – UNTIL SUNDAY 9 JANUARY 2022
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
4****
When I think of a pantomime, I think of glorious costumes, dazzling lights, booming bangs, foggy smoke, funny dance moves and hilarious comedy moments of audience participation. Christmas pantomimes are a favourite festive event and this one certainly did not disappoint.
Fairy Rose (Nazene Langfield, the understudy) sets in motion the tale of Beauty and the Beast. The very wicked Madame Botox (James Lacey) wishes for her son Gaston (Tom Fothergrill, the understudy) to marry the beautiful young Belle (Lauren McCrory) but despite Madame Botox’s attempt to curse the prince, turning him into a hideous beast (Benjamin Keith), Belle falls in love with the doomed prince. Will the Beast learn to love and be loved, in time to break the spell?
The slap stick escapades of French Frank (Lewis Devine) and Potty Polly (Jamie Greer), guarantees audience participation and gets them into panto mood with their chucklesome comedy corkers.
The choreography is elegantly performed by talented dancers and the songs are well chosen, especially Madam Botox’s version of ‘I put a spell on you’. The whole audience, old and young alike got onto their feet, to join in with ‘Tik Toks’.
From the first ‘Bonjour’ to the last goodbye, I was thoroughly entertained throughout. The slick cast transformed this age old tale into something of a Beauty for everyone.
The Epstein is SEE IT FIRST approved, which means they are complying with industry and Government Covid-19 guidelines. The wearing of masks was encouraged, whilst walking around and when seated.
The Epstein is a magnificent, grade 2 listed theatre based in the heart of Liverpool. After a strenuous 18 months, the Epstein Theatre is back, under new management with this premier pantomime.