The Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 12 January 2025
Reviewed by Josie Aburrow Smith and Emmie (9 years old)
4****
We step into the very Glamorous GlosVegas where Window Twankey (Kevin Brewis) has 2 sons, Tweedy and Aladdin (Luke Suri). Aladdin’s love interest Jasmine (Samira Mighty) put on a fun performance of singing and dancing with the ensemble. There is also the baddie Abanazar (Miles Western) who is based on the King himself, Elvis. This was slightly lost on the younger members of the audience! Then there is also the Spirit of the Ring (Jessica Martin) who was great fun and whose costume and head gear was much appreciated by the 9 year olds. The story is loosely based on Arabian nights.
What did the 9 year old say? “Tweedy was so funny, he always makes us laugh. I really liked the glittery stage. The best bit is Aladdin on the flying carpet, I can’t say more as it will spoil it so you have to see it.”
Overall it was an enjoyable pantomime which was loved by all ages. Lots of fun singing and dancing, audience participation and many laugh out loud moments.
It does come with a Content Warning “Panto is a lot of fun, but sometimes it can be a little bit loud, and a little bit cheeky, with some jokes that only grown-ups will understand. Please bear this in mind if you are bringing anyone under the age of 5, or anyone with a nervous or more sensitive disposition”
The Speed of the panto is such that the more grown up jokes went totally over the head of my 9 year old.
The weather is very grey and drizzly at the moment so I recommend getting down to the Everyman for a colourful evening of laughter.