The Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield – until 3rd January 2022
Reviewed by Sophie Dodworth
4****
The Lyceum is feeling festive and flamboyant with the annual Christmas pantomime in full swing. There is a real buzz in the auditorium and what a bonus to have the audience (mainly led by the school groups) sing along to ‘All I Want for Christmas’. The energy is already oozing out of all possible places…helped along by the musicians smartly placed in the boxes next to the stage.
Paul Hendy has written a strong and engaging script, feeling punchy, modern and majestic. There isn’t really any down time or periods where you were wishing that things would hurry along. The story of Sleeping Beauty and her ever long sleep induced by the witch, manipulating her in to pricking her own finger, poisoning her; and then sleeping for 100 years while she waits for a prince to kiss her back to life, is intact, just with a modern spin. And lots of current and possibly controversial-to-some references.
The cast were excellent, all so very committed and ready to execute their roles with gust. Fairy Moonbeam (Janine Duvitski) drew you in right from the start, many of the kids warming to her and getting excited when she appeared back on. She almost made the production that bit more comforting. Nurse Nellie (Damian Williams) was your typical dame, as expected, lots of flirty references and gags galore. Jangles was played by Ben Thornton, the most energetic member of cast on stage! He really came across as enjoying the time he spends on stage which is so important to portray to your audience. Lucas Rush playing Carabosse really steals the show as the ‘baddie’! what a villain. Just a perfect match for this role and very convincing, some of the younger children really buying in to this scary man. Prince (Dominic Sibanda) and Beauty (Hannah Everest) make a really suitable pairing on the stage, both very sweet, beautiful voices and a charismatic duo. Two Cheeky Monkeys (the Dragon Keepers) must also get a very big mention, what a visual treat. Their displays with fire were jaw-dropping, very talented and a great touch for the pantomime.
The Musical Director (James Harrison) must get a mention for his contribution to the performance at the side of the stage, really adding to the atmosphere and giving it that something extra. The music was faultless and complemented the show while uplifting the audience, as did the choreography by Sarah Langley. Helga Wood and Terry Parsons did an outstanding job with the costumes, lots of fine detail and that didn’t go unnoticed, the glitter and sparkles were needed and appreciated.
Overall, a really solid pantomime with lots of content, keeping you on your toes, making you want to move your feet and having you leave the theatre with that warm, fuzzy feeling.