Aladdin at the Mayflower Theatre Southampton Review
Aladdin
Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
12 December 2015 to 3 January 2016
Reviewed by Helen Dickinson
Aladdin is one of my childhood favourite books, I was pleased when I was asked to review Aladdin at the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton. Having seen the cast line up before attending, I was very excited to go along to the Panto.
Upon arriving in Southampton, we parked in the West Park Multi-Storey Car Park which is a short walk to the venue. It cost £4.50 for 4 hours to park in. Although there are cheaper car parks in the city, this is one of the closest car parks to the venue and has plenty of parking spaces, including disabled bays.
On arrival at the Mayflower, the lobby was signed well and we were able to pick up our tickets in a matter of minutes. We found the staff to be very friendly and very organised. Inside the theatre, it is clean and tidy and the staff are happy to help with any questions that visitors may have. We were seated in the dress circle and we were able to see the stage clearly.
Leading up to the start of the performance, everyone was very excited. There were lots of squeals, busy chatter and a lot of smiles in the audience. As the lights dimmed, we were prepared to be taken on a magic carpet ride.
As soon as the show started, we were gripped. There were plenty of laughs to be had thanks to the very funny Joe Pasquale who played Wishee Washee. He entertained the whole of the audience from the word go. Although some of his jokes were a little on the rude side, this went over the younger viewers heads and Joe created many smiles in the audience. From flying on a magical carpet, stripping down to his pants and including audience members throughout the show he was one of the best people I have seen in panto.
We were treated to some dance smash hits with fantastic vocals from Duncan James who played Aladdin which was sure to get peoples feet tapping and we were amazed at the outfits Ceri Dupree who played Widow Twankey managed to show off. There was plenty of sparkle from these two as well as plenty of jokes that went well with Joe Pasquale’s humour.
The 3D effects are spectacular. If you are looking for a 3D genie that jumps out at you as well as flowing rivers, flying rocks and magic buttons, this is a show for you. Having previously never been to a panto that shows 3D, this was a treat to see.
There are plenty of scenes to see, including one of my favourite scenes which sees a slapstick routine. The slapstick routine had many of the audience in tears. You will see saucepans, cricket bats, hats and even water go flying around the stage and off the stage. This show is energetic, funny, witty and something magical. Whether you’re a fan of the cast, the story of Aladdin or a Christmas Panto, this is a show for you.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £15 to £39.50 (booking fees may apply).
Aladdin is at the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton until 3 January 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 02380 711811.
Mayflower Theatre, Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1GE | 02380 711811
