Mayflower Theatre – until 5th January 2025
Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock
4****
Panto arrives in Southampton for another whirlwind extravaganza of music, dancing and fun!
Ashley Banjo and Diversity are heading up this year’s Panto, with Banjo playing ‘Jack’ and his troupe being Jack’s siblings. It was a pleasure to see Ashley in a main role and he gave an endearing performance-I would love to see him act in other productions! When Dame Trott, Jacks mother played by Matt Rixon orders him to sell their beloved cow Pat, chaos ensues! Anne Smith as ‘Mrs Blunderbore’, buys Pat for a bag of magic beans, which grow into the biggest beanstalk-truly magic!!! Anne Smith revelled in her evil character and gave a perfect portrayal of the Giants Wife! Lauren Hampton as Princess Jill was fabulous and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing her excel in her spectacular dancing throughout the show.
The stand out of this Panto, was Kev Orkian as Silly Simon. He absolutely stole the show with his quick wit, perfect timing and outstanding ad libs. His connection with the audience was infectious and it was a joy to hear the whole auditorium fill with shouts and applause whenever he came on stage. He had me crying with laughter during his dance sequence-it was hysterical!
When we are introduced to the Giant in the clouds, I was enthralled. My jaw was wide open as we saw him come to life and I could not have beamed more when I heard the abundance of ‘wows’ coming from the audience-it was truly truly superb!!!
This show, oozing with magic, special effects, song, dance, sequins and superb performances all round is the perfect show for all ages!