Review: Aladdin at Newcastle Tyne Theatre

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The Geordie Family Panto

Aladdin

Newcastle Tyne Theatre & Opera House

Until Wednesday 30^th December 2015

In a crowded market place, how do you offer a panto with a unique selling point? Tyne Theatre’s production feels authentically Geordie. The local accents are allowed to ring around the stage. The end product is strongly proud of the region and doesn’t resort to much of the “the people in the next village are idiots” mentality… Apart from football jokes, but that is as much a part of the region as jokes about shopping in Fenwicks.

Opening the show in Peking is the delightful Jayne Mackenzie, as Aladdin, singing the Boy Meets Girl hit “Waiting For A Star To Fall”. It was the first of a number of songs that she skilfully tackled.

Apart from the great songs, the other feature of this production is the relentless volley of jokes. First up with the funny lines are Lewis Denny and Gary Walsh as the dim Constable Pong and slightly brighter Sergeant Ping. It wasn’t long before they too broke out into song. Mark Ronson’s hit “Uptown Funk” is this year’s hit for pantos as they nearly all cover it. Lewis and Gary gave a great tongue in cheek rendition.  The dancers, Sherrie McKale, Alistair Walker, Laura Williams and Daniel Constanzo, along with a group of cracking youngster added a vibrancy, with their choreography, whenever they were on stage.

The huge role of script writer, director and panto dame is in the very capable hands of Maxie Peters.  As Widow Twankey he is able to control the early proceedings of the show.  The jokes fly across the stage in rapid fire.  Whilst all of the classic panto elements are present in the show, at least there are some different jokes in this show.   It was great to hear the historic theatre filled with laughter.

The biggest laughs of the nights were reserved for Charlie Richmond as Aladdin’s brother, Wishee Washee.  He had a fantastic ability to connect with both the adults and the younger members of the audience. Whilst many pantos do the 12 Days of Christmas, Charlie helped make the Tyne Theatre’s version the very best.  There was no stopping the music to find a missing item here – the pace was relentless which helped add to the intensity of the routine.

Every panto needs a baddie and Kevin O’Keefe filled the role without being too nasty. Sarah Badger and Emily Swan were both glamorous as the Genie of the Ring and Princess Jasmine.

Given her reputation for singing, it was a surprise that Lorraine Crosby didn’t have more numbers. After a rousing rendition of Eurythmics “Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves” Lorraine was not given much to sing until the grand finale with a fabulous Abba medley. Her role as the Empress of China shows that she can act too.

With its live band playing a number of popular songs, under musical director Michael Watson, family friendly jokes and sharp sense of Geordie humour, this is a classic panto.  It feels local without feeling alienating.  It is a very enjoyable show for all of the family.

This review was written by Stephen Oliver for the North East Theatre Guide from Jowheretogo PR (www.jowheretogo.com). Follow Jo on twitter @jowheretogo, Stephen @panic_c_button or like Jowheretogo on Facebook www.facebook.com/Jowheretogo

Read the original North East Theatre Guide preview:  http://nomorepanicbutton.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/preview-aladdin-at-newcastle-tyne.html

Tickets:

The Tyne Theatre & Opera House Box Office is open 10am-3:30pmMonday to Friday and event days

Booking and Information Line: 0844 2491 000 (10am – 6pmMonday to Friday)

Tickets are now available from www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

Review: Aladdin at Sunderland Empire

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A Magical Panto

Aladdin

Sunderland Empire

Until Sunday 3^rd January 2016.

Aladdin at the Sunderland Empire is a very sparkly affair. The children have lots of opportunities to get excited and shout. So what better way to celebrate Panto Day than with a classic show?

Terence Maynard (Abanazar)

Photo: Dirk Van Der Werff / Eggshell Blue

Terence Maynard may have finished playing Tony Stewart on Coronation Street but he was very much at home as the evil magician Abanazar. He managed to get the young kids booing with vigour early on as stated his quest for world domination. In fact he is a very good bad guy!  It was great to see the bad guy get a reasonable role rather than just appearing at the side whilst the scenery is changed as sometimes happens in panto. The trouble for old Abanazar is that he needs a lad called Aladdin to go into a cave to dig out the lamp with which he will gain the powers that he so desires.

Derek Moran (Wishee Washee)

Photo: Dirk Van Der Werff / Eggshell Blue

Over in Peking Aladdin’s brother, Wishee Washee, has just finished a shift at his Mother’s laundry. Playing the role is Milkshake’sDerek Moran who seems very comfortable pulling the audience on side. Derek gives the audience the usual demands to be greeted whenever he appears or if anyone goes near his pet dog Tiddles. The youngsters in the crowd take an immediate shine to him.

Matthew Dale (Aladdin) and Leanne Kyte (Princess Jasmine)

Photo: Dirk Van Der Werff / Eggshell Blue

No panto is complete with a number of cruel references to neighbouring parts of the region and a few jokes headed in the direction of Aladdin actor Matthew Dale’s hometown of Middlesbrough. The singing in Aladdin was definitely a feature of the show. Along with the love interest Princess Jasmine, played by Leanne Kaye, Aladdin had a number of songs to perform in.  It is great to see a live band, under musical director Steve Allen, rather than a tape being used. The live band came into it’s own during the 12 Days of Christmas. The music chosen reminded us that in fact, 2015 has had some rather good pop hits.

Ian Good (Widow Twankey)

Photo: Dirk Van Der Werff / Eggshell Blue

In his 28^th pantomime, Ian Good was full of the quick jokes as the panto dame Widow Twankey. Ian is also the director of the show and he gave a very sound performance.

Local lad Tom Whalley was very funny as PC Pong in a real stand out performance. He had a genuine energy in his performance.

Alison Hammond (Slave of the Ring) and

 Alex Green (Genie of the Lamp)

Photo: Dirk Van Der Werff / Eggshell Blue

The show needs some magic and helping Aladdin is the Slave of the Ring performed by This Morning’s Alison Hammond whose entrance was noted by the Strictly Come Dancing theme each time. Her sharp wit came across regularly in the show.  The Genie of the Lamp was played by Alex Green and he probably deserved a bigger role as the deliverer of wishes.

Tom Whalley (PC Pong)

Photo: Dirk Van Der Werff / Eggshell Blue

Panto is challenging to produce and special mention should go to the ensemble known as the “People of Peking”. They  danced the night away and, along with the young girls from the local dance schools,  didn’t put a foot wrong.

In a bright, colourful production, the audience had plenty to get excited about.  The show has a youthful energy and a real positive buzz about it.

This review was written by Stephen Oliver for the North East Theatre Guide from Jowheretogo PR (www.jowheretogo.com). Follow Jo on twitter @jowheretogo, Stephen @panic_c_button or like Jowheretogo on Facebook www.facebook.com/Jowheretogo

Read the original North East Theatre Guide preview of Aladdin here: http://nomorepanicbutton.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/preview-aladdin-at-sunderland-empire.html

Terence Maynard (Abanazar) and Matthew Dale (Aladdin)

Photo: Dirk Van Der Werff / Eggshell Blue

Tickets 

Tickets are on sale now from the Box Office on High Street West, Sunderland, the Ticket Centre on 0844 871 3022* and online at www.ATGtickets.com/Sunderland

Alison Hammond (Slave of the Ring

Photo: Dirk Van Der Werff / Eggshell Blue

Families will also have the chance to take part in themed Arabian Adventure Tours hosted by our Creative Learning Department on certain dates over the festive period. To find out more and book call 0844 8713022 or book in person at the Box Office on High Street West.

BSL Signed performance, Wednesday 30 December (2pm) and the Relaxed Performance will be held on Saturday 2 January 2015 (2pm).

Review: Hound of the Baskervilles at Gateshead Little Theatre

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Howling With Laughter

Hound of the Baskervilles

Gateshead Little Theatre

Until Saturday 12^th December 2015

Imagine an adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "Hound of the Baskervilles" in which there are more laughs than mystery? The story has been carefully adapted by Stephen Canny and John Nicholson. As an added twist, this production, by the Progressive Players of Gateshead, has all 16 characters performed by just 3 actors. The end result is very funny.

The show opens as Sir Charles Baskerville meets his untimely end. Philip Alexanders opens up an imaginary gate with creaking sound effects. In a simple gesture, the audience have already started laughing for all of the right reasons. Any worries are blown away as Daniel Wilde charges onto the stage to stop the action and read a production warning notice. The Play That Goes Wrong is currently going down a storm in the West End and it is that wonderful level of humour that has been achieved here.

James Race plays Sherlock Holmes as they try to solve the riddle of Baskerville’s death. Daniel Wilde is his faithful companion Watson. They discover that there is one final Baskerville remaining, his nephew Henry, who is coming across from Canada to visit the estate. They decide to head to Dartmoor to get to the bottom of the riddle. Holmes tries to remain the alpha male in each conversation even though Watson has his fair share of breakthroughs.

The cast clearly enjoy this show and it is the onstage chemistry between the 3 that helps make this show work. Behind the scenes, the crew also have comic timing with the lighting and sound effects and ensuring the props are ready.

At a time of year when theatres are full of shows for children it is great to see a show that adults will enjoy. Janet Wind’s direction has resulted in a slick performance. There is a nice combination of breaking that fourth wall and apparent “errors” on stage for the audience to laugh at. 

Proving that laughter isn’t for children this is the perfect antidote for the pantomime season. This is a very funny show that is well worth seeking out.

Cast:

Jim Race as Sherlock Holmes & many others

Phil Alexanders as Sir Henry & others

Dan Wilde as Watson & Local

Creatives:

Stage Manager Terry Collier, Gordon Dunlop, Gavin Jaques,

Set Design & Construction George Mavin, Peter Mitchell & John Woods

Lighting Sound Set by: Robbie Carruthers & Mike Swallow

Lighting operate: Jenni Craig

Sound Set: Marian Walker

Sound Operate: Samantha Hutton

Directed by: Janet Wind

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/littletheatregateshead/

Box Office: 0191 478 1499

Website: www.littletheatregateshead.com/

 

Review: Cinderella at Darlington Civic Theatre

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Pudsey The Dog Learns New Tricks

Cinderella

Darlington Civic Theatre

Until Sunday 10^th January 2016.

The Darlington Civic crowd left with smiles on their faces as Cinderella’s coach rolled into town.

Cinderella is looking for love in this classic pantomime. She is being bullied by her ugly step sisters but she has a friend in Buttons. Meanwhile, over at the palace, the local Prince is looking for someone to marry who wants him for his personality rather than his status.

Cinders is performed by Ashleigh Butler who appears with her amazing sidekick Pudsey the dog. The star, who came to fame when she won the 2011 tv show Britain’s Got Talent, is very comfortable as the centre of attention.  Pudsey gets a number of opportunities to wow the audience and he never put a paw wrong.

Cinders Dad, Baron Hardup, is performed by Channel 4 Coach Trip’s Brendan Sheerin, who was clearly enjoying the role. He put a few coach references into the routines but they’d be lost on anyone not familiar with his tv show.

Providing the singing talent was X-Factor semi-finalist Niki Evans. Niki was both glamorous and charming as The Fairy Godmother. Her singing was one of the highlights of the show.

Buttons can be a tough gig as you have to narrate the story and orchestrate much of the audience participation. All round entertainer Matt Edwards uses his talent to get the audience to take part. He has a lot to offer the show and it seems a shame he didn’t do a few more tricks in the context of the show.

Alastair Hill has a chance to show off his singing ability as Prince Charming. He plays the role well and he is a suitable romantic target for Cinderella. Wayne Smith completes the double act as his servant Dandini.

  

Completing the line up of principal performers are Phil Corbitt and Danny Potts as the Ugly Sisters Mel & Sue. They were suitably grotesque. Their dislike of Cinders was made apparent without being too nasty. The audience were happy to boo whenever they came on.  They had numerous bright dresses to wear which helped them to stand out whenever they were on stage.

There are some great scenes in the Andrew Ryan directed show.  Prince Charming serenading Cinderella in the forest with Buttons playing gooseberry was wonderful fun.  The 12 days of Christmas was another fabulous comedy routine.

The show has a really talented dancing ensemble who never missed a step.  The dancing routines are completed with the lovely Joanne Banks Dancers. 

Unlike many North East pantos the show comes complete with a live band, who had their work cut out, especially on the 12 days of Christmas.

At 2 hours, it does not over run. Cinderella got the thumbs up from our 12 year old son who loved it. It is a traditional mix of love story, slapstick and songs.

This review was written by Stephen Oliver for the North East Theatre Guide from Jowheretogo PR (www.jowheretogo.com). Follow Jo on twitter @jowheretogo, Stephen @panic_c_button or like Jowheretogo on Facebook www.facebook.com/Jowheretogo

Read the original North East Theatre Guide preview of Cinderella here: http://nomorepanicbutton.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/preview-cinderella-at-darlington-civic.html

Tickets

Cinderella runs at Darlington Civic Theatre from Saturday 5 December 2015 to Sunday 10 January 2016. For tickets and more information visit www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk or call 01325 486555.

Review: Turning Pages at Newcastle Live Theatre

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Six exciting short plays by young writers from Gateshead & Sunderland

                                             
Turning Pages
Newcastle Live Theatre
Saturday 5^th December 2015

The Live Theatre Write Stuff project has produced six little gems that show how creative young people can be. Professional actors perform in an eclectic mix of stories. This is the generation that plays games consoles, use their mobiles as torches and watch the likes of the Hostel and Saw movies.

An inventive set and great lighting design provide a number of tricks of the theatre trade to bring these stories alive. The real power though, is in the scripts themselves, as each play ultimately looks into relationships.

Photo: Chris Auld.

Memories Of The Sea by Amy Connor from Sunderland’s Red House Academy sets out the stall well for the evening. Adam Donaldson plays a lad who is looking for work. He has applied for many jobs but he is struggling to get his foot on the first rung of the ladder. He meets up with his Nan in one of his favourite spots, a bench with a sea view. Nan shares the contents of her box of memories whilst he is disturbed by the idea that Nan was once also a young passionate person in love. There is a genuinely natural reaction by the grandson to the concept of the grandparent dating. The script makes mature use of a third offstage character- the lad’s Mam. Judi Earl shows the tenderness of a loving family relationship whilst staying in alpha position in the relation. Memories Of The Sea was a delightful start to proceedings and, like many of the evenings stories, it has the potential to be expanded into a full length play.

Photo: Chris Auld.

Scary House by Reece Weightman from Gateshead’s Furrowfield School was a change in direction and pace. A lad, played by Chris Foley, breaks into a house for a dare. He uses a mobile phone for light. The audience can only see what he sees as he decides to vandalise the place. This production really benefited from the clever lighting design. But what is that in the corner? Is it a clown? We know from Wet House (Review: http://nomorepanicbutton.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/review-wet-house-at-newcastle-live.html) that Chris Connel does scary very well and tonight he did not disappoint as the somewhat unhinged clown. Reece’s play has a sense of dark comedy about it and the audience were frequently in stitches about the situation as it unfolded.

Photo: Chris Auld.

Could It Be A Tuna? By Red House Academy’s Nathan Beckett showed the how a young playwright can sensitively handle a tough situation.  A 4 year old lad has been diagnosed with a brain tumour. The NHS has run out of funding and so his parents have just 2 options: raise the funds to get him to America for treatment or watch him die before he turns 6. Christina Berriman Dawson plays the egocentric mum who is loving the attention that is being drawn to her family by the media campaign. Tom Booth is the poor 4 year old who idolises his parents. He gets his phrases wrong – as a 4 year old does. The tumour is referred to as a “tuna” and the USA becomes “United of America”. Nathan’s dialogue accepts the perception of a young child about his future.  One could feel empathy for the poor friendless lad who relies totally on his parents. The young parent too, at times, is also childish in her attitude. This was another show in which the audience clearly enjoyed the lighter moments in an interesting study of the human condition.

Photo: Chris Auld.

Furrowfield School’s Leonnie Lartey wrote Soulless and Goalless in which 18 year old Pamela Kingsley has moved into a new house.  Natalie Golightly plays the self obsessed teenager who feels that she will have a career as a singer. Once again, much to the audience’s surprise, a great trick of the lighting reveals Natalie Jamieson as the ghost of the house. The make up on the mischievous 7 year is stunning. The characters show a real mismatch in the expectations and attitude of Victorian children with their modern counterparts. The dark humour comes from the careful handling of the characters. Leonnie’s play finished the first half on a high. The ending shows a real creative flair that would have not been out of place in Roald Dahl’s Tales of the Unexpected.

Photo: Chris Auld.

The second set opened with Doctor Death from Furrowfield School’s Lee Harrison. Matt Jamie plays the game loving first aider on the building site of a new hospital. He is busy playing on his X-box when his boss comes in. The boss is on the search for a couple of employees that seem to have disappeared recently. Michael Lockhart’s character is then led into a game by Matt’s menacing character. Lee’s play has a number of surprises which unfold as the game proceeds. Certainly it has put this reviewer off mint tea.

Photo: Chris Auld.

Finishing the show was Never Never Land by Lauren Dickson. The Red House Academy student makes references to J.M.Barrie’s Peter Pan as she explores the desire to stay youthful. Set in 2071, Chris Foley is a 14 year old who is too grown up to listen to bed-time stories. But Donald McBride’s Grandad character is keen to give him a warning from the past as he recalls how everyone was willing to make sacrifices to stay young back in 2020. Both actors have a field day as they explore the ridiculous pursuit of the perfect body image.  Lauren’s cautionary tale is timely and heart-felt.

Credit must go to everyone who has had a hand in putting these shows on the stage. The team of professionals at Live Theatre, as well as the families and schools of the young creators of the plays must be justifiably proud.

Designer Alison Ashton, lighting designer Drummond Orr, costume designer Lou Duffy and sound designer Dave Flynn have each added their polish to a great evening. The show has the most creative use of a bed in the set design as it took part in numerous ways.

Each play has the potential for development into a longer piece. They show a much broader outlook, by the young writers, on the world than older observers may give them credit for. Their voice is authentically young whilst their observations and wit are sharply focussed. The Live Theatre continues, successfully, to develop the writers of the future. The world of culture is a better place for it.

The plays written by students from Furrowfield School in

Gateshead are Doctor Death by Lee Harrison, Soulless and Goalless by Leonnie Lartey and Scary House by Reece Weightman. The plays written by students from Red House Academy in Sunderland are Could It Be A Tuna? by Nathan Beckett, Memories Of The Sea by Amy Connor, and Never Never Land by Lauren Dickson. 

This review was written by Stephen Oliver for the North East Theatre Guide from Jowheretogo PR (www.jowheretogo.com). Follow Jo on twitter @jowheretogo, Stephen @panic_c_button or like Jowheretogo on Facebook www.facebook.com/Jowheretogo

Read the original preview: http://nomorepanicbutton.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/preview-turning-pages-at-newcastle-live.html

Coming up at Live Theatre:

Next season Live Theatre has a selection of productions suitable for families and young people. You can see the next set of plays by young writers, as they are performed for the first time as script-in-hand performances in the Studio Theatre at 7.30pm on Friday 4 March as pupils from The Northumberland Church of England Academy take part in Write Stuff. In The Media Circus at 7.30pm on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 March, members of Live's Youth Theatre present imagainative short plays about the good, the bad and the ugly side of media presence in young people's lives. Find out more.

For more information and to buy tickets costing £8 and £6 concessions call Live Theatre’s box office on (0191) 232 1232 or see www.live.org.uk.

North East Theatre Guide Preview of the new season at Live Theatre: http://nomorepanicbutton.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/live-theatres-january-to-june-2016.html