Panto season is finally here at the Lyric Hammersmith! When the lights go down, a booming voice asks, “Are you ready?” Brace yourself for a two-hour rollercoaster filled with larger-than-life characters, dazzling dance routines, and an unforgettable soundtrack that will make your heart sing.
Writer Sonia Jalaly and director Nicholas La Barrie’s brilliant reboot of Aladdin is pure magic. Rather than the traditional tale set in the souks, we find Aladdin (Andre Antonio) and Princess Jasmine (Aleyna Mohanraj) in Hammersmith Market.
At the centre of this enchanting tale is Aladdin’s mother, Widow Twerky (aka Mrs Idris Elba) who runs the Wishee Washee launderette. This vibrant setting serves as the backdrop for a modern-day love story, as themes of acceptance and kindness shine through, while the unlikely couple dance around the stage in their box-fresh trainers.
The show is elevated by its infectious music, skilfully arranged by Corin Buckeridge and directed by Adam Gerber. The glorious medley of pop tracks and children’s favourites, incorporates everything from Beyoncé to Wiley, and Spongebob to Shania Twain.
The real showstopper is Dame Widow Twerky (Emmanuel Akwafo), whose performance is nothing short of outrageous.
With clever double entendre and shameless twerking, she brings the house down and has both children and adults in stitches. Her dynamic pairing with the Genie (Jodie Jacobs), who brings warmth and humour, and a captivating voice, is a true highlight.
The eye-popping costumes, designed by Good Teeth, dazzle with sequins, glitter, and glamour, enhancing the already fabulous characters on stage.
As with every panto, the villain is a scene-stealer, and Princess Jasmine’s evil stepfather, Abanazaar (Andrew Pepper) is greeted by boos as he taunts the audience and plots to banish Aladdin to a hidden cave in the “middle aisle of Lidl.”
It all comes together beautifully when we see Aladdin and Princess Jasmine make their magical carpet escape. This iconic and breathtaking moment brings collective gasps and wide-eyed wonder from audience members of all ages, showcasing the high production value.
With only four members in the ensemble – Francisco Gomes, Isaiah James-Mitchell, Summer Priest and Laura Dawn Pyatt – they make fantastic additions to the cast and mesmerise during their group dance routines. Gomes’s solo turn as Cardi B is particularly on-point.
Watching this diverse cast is a celebration in itself. Casting director Richard Johnston has showcased a variety of nationalities, with Aladdin being Black and Princess Jasmine Indian, reflecting the rich tapestry of our multicultural capital.
Packed with brilliant humour, timely cultural references, and sheer joy, Aladdin is as camp as Christmas and stands out as one of the best pantomimes I’ve ever seen. Oh yes, it absolutely is!
Need to know: Aladdin is at Lyric Hammersmith until 5 January 2025 | Trigger warning: The production features loud bangs, flashing lights, strobe lights, pyrotechnics and confetti canons.
