Review: Liverpool Empire Theatre Presents Aladdin
Written by Eric Potts, directed by Jane Joseph and choreographed by Beverley Norris-Edmunds, the panto is a glitzy show-stopping affair. The set was absolutely magnificent as were the costumes. The strong cast made this a seamless performance which delighted the audience, adults and children alike. With references to the Mersey tunnel, Birkenhead and many other places of interest across Merseyside, I felt at home instantly. Perhaps if you are from outside of the area, the jokes may go over your head but the frivolity and the underlying story and theme of Aladdin will certainly not be lost.
Ray Quinn opened proceedings with a rendition of Pharrell Williams' "Happy" This was a strong vocal performance and the choreography of the rest of the cast on stage was truly magnificent. Radio City's Leanne Campbell who played Princess Jasmine soon made an entrance onto the stage and sung a duet with Quinn which was in a word exceptional. Singing "Beneath your beautiful" originally performed by Labrinth and Emeli Sande Leanne's vocal ability was clearly demonstrated. I was extremely impressed and hung onto her every word - a truly credible performance which set the bar for the rest of the show. Throughout the pantomime, I loved the use of current music as it made it relevant and the audience was left engaged feeling a part of the action as they sang along in high spirits.
This is a High quality, high end production that will have you roaring with laughter throughout, captivated with the drama and full of festive cheer by the time you leave the theatre. The panto united the audience and there was merriment throughout the Empire. The jokes were quite risqué at times but hopefully the innuendos evaded the tiny minds and ears of the minors present at the performance.
Claire Sweeney - Liverpool's sweetheart excelled in her role of Genie of the ring. Her delivery was flawless and there was so much humour in her dry wit and straight talking persona. The one-liners were executed with skill, a testament to her professionalism.
Radio City's Pete Price in his role of the Emperor portrayed his regal role as a protective father well. Roy Brandon was hilarious as the Dame - Widow Twankey. He put every ounce of passion into his performance and the result was a delighted audience. Ben Engelen who played Wishee Washee had a great stage presence and interacted with the younger members of the audience fantastically. Ray Quinn was a cheeky chap throughout and was well suited to the role as the protagonist Aladdin. You couldn't help but be enamored with him. Warren Donnelly played a convincing villainous Abanazar although the audience did not get the opportunity to shout the customary "He's behind you" line. Last but not least, Adam Curtis who played PC Pong was super. His character hailed from Bootle and he delighted the masses with his animated and no airs and graces delivery.
Highlights for me performance wise were from Leanne Campbell (Jasmine) and Joe Speare (Genie of the lamp). Leanne sang beautifully and she was the perfect princess Jasmine; endearing and charming. Speare's vocals for the song "Diamond and Pearls" by Prince were outstanding and he gave a charismatic, convincing performance in his role as genie. He was perfectly suited to the role, commanding voice and excellent projection. Both were extremely talented performers.
Overall, I thought this was an excellent show and I wouldn't hesitate in watching it again and recommending it to others. It's fabulous, feel good and festively fun.
Rating 5/5
The show runs until to 4th January. Tickets are available here
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