Sleeping Beauty At Buxton Opera House Review

Reviewed by Alexander Wilde

It’s officially Christmas – panto season returns with a production of Sleeping Beauty at the incomparable Buxton Opera House! As charming and resplendent as ever, this North Derbyshire gem is the quintessential venue in which to enjoy the magic and marvel of pantomime.

It was a crisp December day and the afternoon was full of festive cheer as families and friends were greeted warmly by the staff and troop of volunteers that keep the Edwardian theatre thriving. As always, there was a buzz in the air as we settled into our comfortable seats and waited for the curtain to rise.

Welcoming us to Old Buxtonia in a faraway land, the dazzling Fairy Liquid opened the show with a prologue – eighteen years ago, at the birth of Princess Beauty. It was a royal celebration not to be missed and the audience played their part in the Christening of the heiress. On this occasion they opted for Princess Ketchup!

Unfortunately, the wicked fairy Carabossy was not invited to this shindig and, taking great offence, set the curse that the Princess would prick her finger and die before her 18th birthday. Returning to Buxton Opera House, the gorgeously gravelly James Holmes, takes his traditional dame role and twists it as the antagonist of the spectacle. With more than a cauldron full of double entendres and filling every scene with physical and side-splitting comedy, panto at Buxton wouldn’t be the same without him. Purely puntastic in every way and a favourite of young and old alike. As always, the costumes – extravagant and an attraction in their own right! James’ dresser, Willow Mercer, had her work cut out.

Matthew Jay Ryan also makes a welcome return as the lovable compère Jock. His impressive list of of stage and screen credits are evident in his energetic, and what appears, effortless performance. Incredibly talented and with a natural ability to connect with the audience, he quickly established a strong bond for the inevitable back and forth exchanges and active audience participation.

A chance meeting with Princess Ketchup and Jock is smitten. It seems the stars are aligned and the pauper with the heart of gold will live happily ever after with the princess. However, Carabossy has other plans and is still seeking vengeance for the snubbing of old….

By the end of Act One, the curse is fulfilled (sort of) and the titular star is slumbering. Played by up and coming star, Georgia Gallagher, she has a number of stirring solos and pop hits which showcased her vocal talent and is perfect for the role.

In classic fairy-tale lore, Princess Ketchup can only be woken by true-loves’ kiss. Will it be Jock or newcomer Prince Gorgeous (Ross Clifton)? Musically talented too, the prince has a very modern and instantly recognisable style and was fearless in his quest. Both royals lit up the stage and the chemistry between the two was perfect. They invested a great deal into their roles and will undoubtedly be leading musicals for many years to come.

Complementing the cast throughout the production were a brilliant ensemble, some of whom were making their professional debuts. These future stars were fully invested and enjoying their part in the extravaganza; singing and dancing their hearts out. Furthermore, extraordinary recognition goes to the orchestral and technical team – as always stunning staging and costuming, uplifting tunes with perfectly timed sound and visual effects too. Each year is better than the last – the fiery fiend in the second act was particularly impressive!

Overall, the scene changes and musical interludes were punchy and perfectly balanced for the audience age range. The narrative flowed easily and we were left wanting more. Superb writing and direction, with high production values.

My only wish is the show could have lasted longer; it was simply magnificent! Don’t doze-off this season because panto season is back and not to be missed! Sleeping Beauty at Buxton Opera House is a spellbinding Christmas treat for the whole family.

Rating: Four Magical Stars

Running until 1st January 2023, with tickets priced from £10 to £26, book online https://buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/sleeping-beauty-2022, visit or call the Box Office 01298 72190.

Buxton Opera House, Water Street , Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 6XN