UK Theatre Network

There is something magical about pantomime at Christmas.  The plot lines may be as predictable as Simon Cowell’s wardrobe and jokes might be as corny as Kansas in August ... but the magic inevitably comes from the reaction of the kids!

Gerard Kelly and Karen Dunbar headline the £1 million production of Aladdin at the King’s Theatre in Glasgow this year.  As Wishy Washy and Widow Twanky they had the audience in stitches throughout, delivering lines from the practiced pen of writer, Bob Black.  The title role was stylishly played by panto newbie, Keith Jack (Scottish runner up in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s recent search for Joseph), and his romantic companion, Princess Jasmine, was delightfully portrayed by Frances Mayli McCann.  The romantic leads’ voices, in particular, blended beautifully on stage.  Gavin Mitchell was the subject of the audience’s “boos” as the diabolically wicked Abanazar.

The supporting cast had a suitably diverse range of talent from the lively distractions of the 8 ensemble dancers to the comedy duo of Bryan Lowe and Mark Prendergast.  They were joined by an unbilled cameo by Andy Gray as the Genie.

The Credit Crunch was left outside on the cold doorstep of the King’s Theatre as the production showed every penny of the £1m budget.  There was more smoke onstage than on the doorstep of a Glasgow pub and the flying effects of cast and carpet were worth the ticket price alone!  Costumes werestunning and the stage sparkled throughout.

Treat yourself to some Christmas Cheer at the King’s this year!

Listings Info:

ALADDIN

Until Sun 17 January 2010

Tickets: £6 - £24.50

Box Office 0844 871 7648 (Bkg fee)

Groups and Schools Sales 0141 240 1122

www.ambassadortickets.com/glasgow (bkg fee)