Reviewed by Louise Turton
Heading into the festive season can only mean one thing – panto season has begun! Always a highlight in our calendar and something we as a family look forward to throughout the year is the annual tradition of Llandudno’s Venue Cymru pantomime.
Because of the adverse weather conditions of the past couple of days we set off earlier than usual to travel, and after experiencing a good journey arrived at the theatre with plenty of time to spare so decided to enjoy a pre-show drink in the welcoming bar. It was a lovely, relaxing way to start our evening before taking our seats within the auditorium.
This year we were being treated to a production of Peter Pan starring Coronation Street’s Ryan Thomas as Captain Hook (my teenage daughter was thrilled with this after recently discovering he will soon be appearing in her favourite Neighbours), Pauline Daniels as Mimi the Magical Mermaid, and appearing in his 36th pantomime stalwart Andy Jones as Mrs Smee. The pantomime also featured a stellar cast and praise should go out to all especially the young Lewis Lloyd Lowry and Charlton Taylor as John and Michael Darling and also The Pearl Shaw School of Performing Arts. This was the opening evening and only the second show and I was so impressed by the confidence shown by all.
As in previous years the standard of the pantomime that Llandudno produces is of the highest quality. From the set designs, to costumes, the script, and of course the cast everything is really top notch and aimed at children and adults alike. Some of the humour and jokes cuts quite close to the bone but upon glancing at my children’s faces completely goes over them so this makes it fun for all. The musical numbers are sensational with a mix of new numbers and old favourites and my little boy was truly mesmerised that Peter Pan could actually fly! The scene with Hook learning to dance, taught by Mrs Smee was the highlight for us all – so much so that we are more than tempted to go and watch the panto again just to see if it was supposed to play out as it did!
The beauty at Venue Cymru is the inclusion of everyone and audience participation is always greatly encouraged, also it is a joy to see how much fun the cast are having and the great rapport they have with each other.
Thank you Llandudno, for another memorable family moment. We are looking forward to next year already and Andy Jones we hope to see you there.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £18 to £25 (booking fees may apply).
Peter Pan is at Venue Cymru in Llandudno from 9-31 December 2017, for more information or to book tickets visit www.venuecymru.co.uk or call the box office on 01492 872000.
Venue Cymru, The Promenade, Llandudno, Conwy, LL30 1BB | 01492 872000
