The Wizard Of Oz At St.Helens Theatre Royal Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Rebecca Banasko
It’s half-term and what better way to spend time with the family than at a panto! St. Helens Theatre Royal are bringing us a real treat with the Wizard of Oz running until 31st October. We went along with a 10 year old and a three year old and it was so much fun and suitable for both ages. In this digital age when children spend so much time on devices, it was a breath of fresh air to see them entertained and engaged with a live stage show that made them laugh, shout and boo out loud! They loved every second, as did the adults, who reminisced as some of the original film music was played across the audience and there were also plenty of jokes for the grown-ups too!
The Wizard of Oz is the age old story of good versus evil. On the good side was Dorothy played by the lovely Chantelle Morgan, who really did have a look of Judy Garland! With her a team of huge-hearted misfits: the lion, played by Conor Barrie, the tinman played by Shea Ferron and the Scarecrow played by David Heath, of X Factor fame. All faithful alleys of Dorothy as she followed the yellow brick road in an attempt to get home and overcome the evil antics of the Wicked Witch played by Katy McKenna. Luckily, they had the good witch Glinda on their side, played by Hayley Russell who guided them to the Wizard, played by Warren Donnelly of Shameless fame. But the stars of the show were definitely Buddy and Benny who played Toto and behaved so well on stage. They delighted the children and adults as the story unfolded around them.
There were so many highlights to be enjoyed, including the neon puppet show, and dodging a shower or two. A special mention to the Scarecrow who had the audience in stitches with his cheeky jokes and funny antics. It was evident how much work has gone into this seamless show, the stage setting was brilliant and there was something for everyone with the jokes and music that spanned the decades and help tell the story.
This is a show not to be missed! It’s wholesome fun for the whole family and is a chance to be present and be entertained by the plot, music and wonderful actors who bring it all together. St. Helens theatre is a welcoming, warm and friendly place to visit, nothing is too much for the staff who work here and ensure a memorable visit is had by all. St. Helens Theatre is in the centre of the town and is easily accessible via public transport with parking nearby.
Tickets can be purchase at https://www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com/show/873671671/ and start from £26 with concessions available. There are matinees as well as evening shows throughout half-term- so be quick and don’t miss out. This show is a 5/5 from me and is great way to spend some of your half-term making memories with the family – you will not be disappointed!
Rating: 5/5