An exciting Christmas twist on a musical classic. Directed by James Williams, the Panto remake of Aladdin arrived at Watford Palace Theatre in November for the Christmas season. Water guns, bubbles, a duck and a frog...This was no ordinary story.
Aladdin and Jasmine? How about Aladdin and Princess Rose. A monkey yes, but wishee washee. Not what you imagine walking into Aladdin but a welcomed surprise.
The scene was set, no Arabian nights but Waterford. With the help of his monkey brother Wishee Washee (Kate Donnachie) and mother, Watford’s favourite Widow Twanky (Terence Frisch) brining laughs (and sweets) to the stage, Aladdin sets to win over Princess Rose (Diya Sohi) the daughter of the emperor. A highly unusual but creative take on the story of Aladdin.
Some scenes felt displaced. The talking frog and duck seemed to be picked up and dropped into the wrong musical. Understandably there are changes that need to be made but still confusing for both children and adults.
Nonetheless, the set was full of bright colours, sparklers and bubbles bringing the story to life. What stood out the most was the flying carpet that mesmerised the audience as it flew around the stage. However, Aladdin and a flying carpet without a whole new world? Hello by Adele? Seems absurd. However, performed by Genie (Gigi Zahir) and Spirit of the Ring (Chanice Alexander-Burnett) this unusual song choice worked wonders bringing raw emotion to the stage, all ages were captivated by the magic they created.
Speaking of music, there certainly was modern twist, with don’t start now, Hey Ya, I’ve got a feeling and many more. The musical numbers, choreographed by Erina Lewis, were well done. Each dance was professional and full of fun inviting the audience to feel the joy.
Modernisation didn't stop with the music, throughout the play there were references to social media, more precisely, Tik Tok trends. Some may critique this however, the intended under 13 audience found it comedic and something they could understand. Making the play accessible and enjoyable for all.
Aladdin will be at Watford Palace Theatre till the 31st of December, you can buy tickets here: https://watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk/events/aladdin/
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