Hackney Empire – until 5th January 2025
Reviewed by Heather Chalkley
4****
Writer Will Brenton, Director and Dame Clive Rowe are celebrating the 25th pantomime at Hackney Empire in style! From traditional elements that happen every year that everyone loves, to up to date gags, that everyone groans at, the pair have packed it all in.
Sarah the Cook (Clive Rowe) has the most superb and outlandish costumes that would be the envy of any panto dame. Rowe balances the fun and appeal to children and families with a sprinkle of adult humour that made every man in the front rows a little nervous!
King Rat (Graham MacDuff) is an exemplar villain, who adds a twist to the tail! MacDuff has a rasp to his voice with a proper heavy rock vibe.
The sweet tones of Dick Wittington (Kandaka Moore) cuts through the bluff and bluster that is the pantomime norm. The music and dance throughout is an unexpectedly high quality that you do not always experience in local panto.
Sniff (Jemima Reeves) and Scratch (Alfie Simmons) bring the childish fun to the stage, with children laughing out loud at their capers, especially when Sniff swoons at the wonderful smell of Scratch’s armpits!
Tommy the Cat (Kat B) is the real hero of the piece, encouraging every child and adult in the audience to have courage and believe in their dreams.
This Panto cast is a well-oiled machine that provides Christmas entertainment at its best.