Squeals of laughter, surprised gasps and roaring applause made it clear Aladdin got Dartford’s seal of approval – and that was just the adults.
We joined a packed audience at The Orchard Theatre last Tuesday to watch Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) transform into the evil Abanazar and attempt to make as all his slaves.
Comedian Matt Slack stepped into the role of Wishee Washee to help Aladdin in the love department, and it was clear from the start this brilliantly talented joker is the real star of the show.
He had parents and kids alike in utter hysterics with his ridiculous facial expressions, outrageous thrusting and ludicrous voices.
I caught several grownups wiping away tears of laughter.
Trust me - if you’re thinking of treating the little ones to a pantomime this Christmas, Matt Slack will make it just as much fun for you.
It seems pantos have Gangnam Style fever this year, and Aladdin is no exception.
One of my favourite moments saw the cast spontaneously bust out the world famous moves to Psy’s hit single, joined by a huge golden Chinese dragon shaking its tail feathers – brilliant.
And it wasn’t just Gangnam Style making Aladdin contemporary.
When I heard about the 3D Genie, I have to admit I wasn’t sure it would work well in a pantomime.
But when we were told to put our special glasses on, and saw bats, snakes and a whole host of other surprises flying at our faces, I was sold.
The bright red Genie seemed to be speaking specifically to me – it must have been magical for the children.
It was a truly neat addition to the usual panto and gave Aladdin a unique edge over its competition.
A special mention must go out to the talented crew of youngsters in the production.
They were a real pleasure to watch, step perfect and kitted out in wonderfully designed costumes.
Princess Jasmine’s father, played by TV show Banzai’s Masashi Fujimoto, took us all to Old Peking with his shrill Chinese outbursts and was hilarious to watch – especially when he pulled out the kung fu moves.
Peking and London’s East End don’t often have much to do with other, but villain Steve McFadden unites them in harmony.
It’s impossible not to only see Steve as Phil, and this just adds to the fun.
How on earth did Albert Square’s bad ass wind up in Dartford’s panto?
It was surreal and side-splittingly funny to see.
And, like every amazing baddy should, Steve had the kids routing for his demise.
So if it’s great fun, laughter, music and adventure you’re looking for from a Christmas show, take a trip to Old Peking before it’s too late.
Performances run until January 6.
Visit orchardtheatre.co.uk
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