Aladdin – Review – York Theatre Royal
By Kirsty Reid, December 2024
With the festive season in full swing, there’s no shortage of Christmas cheer to tick off your list – from ice skating on outdoor rinks to exploring bustling Christmas markets brimming with mulled wine and handmade gifts. Yet, no yuletide celebration feels complete without the magic of a pantomime.
As an adult, I still love the vibrant costumes and slapstick humour I adored as a child. But now, the cheeky innuendos and clever wordplay add an extra element of fun.
York Theatre Royal is bringing the festive fun this year with its lively production of Aladdin.
On arrival, Helen and I are met with a cheerful choir sporting Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and tinsel – the perfect pre-show entertainment.
“Enchanting”
Inside the auditorium, it’s not long before the laughter starts, thanks to Tommy Carmichael’s brilliant portrayal of Charlie – Aladdin’s lovable and slightly goofy brother.
Carmichael’s energy, razor-sharp timing and warmth make him impossible not to love.
Sario Solomon (Aladdin) and Emily Tang (Princess Jasmine) are a perfect pairing in this enchanting rags-to-riches fairy tale.
Making his York debut, Solomon – winner of BBC’s Let It Shine – delivers strong vocals and a heartfelt, passionate performance.
Tang is equally compelling in her leading role, seamlessly blending elegance with a sense of adventure. Her stunning vocals make her the standout performer of the evening.
“Commands the stage”
Evie Pickerill dazzles in her dual roles as the Spirit of the Ring and the Genie of the Lamp. Known for her work on CBeebies and CBBC, Pickerill brings impeccable comedic timing and a touch of whimsy, adding plenty of sparkle to the production.
No panto is complete without a Dame, and Robin Simpson excels in the role. With outrageous costumes and quick-fire wit, Simpson commands the stage, delivering laugh after laugh.
A panto stalwart, Simpson owns every scene he stars in. His hilarious interactions with the ‘man in the audience’ – a hapless but good-natured participant chosen early on – become a running gag that grows funnier with every iteration. It’s classic panto fare, executed brilliantly.
Every panto needs a villain and it’s a role Paul Hawkyard (Ivan Tobebooed) is perfect for. His booming voice and menacing energy make him a deliciously entertaining antagonist. The audience love to hate him, booing him with a passion.
“Fabulous costumes”
The flying carpet scene steals the show. Flying high above the audience, Solomon’s stint is a hit with theatregoers. The special effects and music add to the magic. Though, I do feel a little nauseous as Solomon twists, turns and spins.
Written by Paul Hendy and directed by Juliet Forster, Aladdin doesn’t disappoint. With a simple set, this fairy tale is brought to live with fabulous costumes, high-energy performances and just the right amount of audience participation.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the talented crew – a special shoutout goes to musical director and drummer Ed Gray.
Leaving the theatre, Helen and I are full of smiles having laughed so hard. That’s another festive event ticked off this year’s list. And one I recommend you add to yours.
‘Aladdin’ is at York Theatre Royal until 5th January
images: SR Taylor Photography SR Taylor Photography
