(Above: Caroline Tyrrell, Grace McIlroy, Daniel Anderson, Georgina Mabbett-Kelly; Kirsty Ndwado & Sarah Tyrrell)
The packed audience responded fervently to the jokes, the games and the humour, particularly the youngsters. It’s an excellent choice for the whole family to shake off the blues. Many of the youngsters looked as if they would head for the stage to join in, given a chance! (Review by Caroline Smart)
It’s 12 Days to Christmas. Apart from carol services and Christmas concerts, what do we all wait for? KickstArt’s annual pantomime, of course! And this year, although long-time director Steve Stead is not part of this year’s panto, (he’s in Cape Town directing The Sound of Music), he has handed over the director’s chair to Darren King who has handled the revival production with his normal impressive skill.
Last night’s opening at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre was pure delight. A hugely talented cast, excellent choreography, magical costumes – all performed against Greg King’s splendid set design. There’s also a flying carpet, Abanazar’s splendid horse, a huge dragon and a giant genie to add to the excitement.
When you are reviewing a show, you have to wear two hats – one that is critical of the quality of production and the other is to observe the audience’s reaction. Is it polite applause or do they really mean it? The last definitely applies in this case. The huge response from last night’s audience proved that they loved every minute of it.
(Right: Sarah Tyrrell, Caroline Tyrrell, Iain Robinson, Grace McIlroy & Kirsty Ndwado)
The packed audience responded fervently to the jokes, the games and the humour, particularly the youngsters. It’s an excellent choice for the whole family to shake off the blues. Many of the youngsters looked as if they would head for the stage to join in, given a chance!
Heading the cast is Daniel Anderson who blew us all away with his recent performance at Rhumbelow of Vincent. He has a lovely voice and fulfils the character extremely well. Rory Booth as Genie of the Ring impressed as always with handling two different characters with aplomb.
(Left: Rory Booth, Blessing
Xaba & Mthokozisi Zulu as Wishee Washee)
With a commanding performance, Iain Robinson is a perfect choice for the evil Abanazar and beautiful Georgina Mabbett pulled much sympathy as Princess Jasmine who is bound to marry Abanazar ... but not if Aladdin can help it!
Belinda Henwood as Dar Ling always impresses with her charm and strong performances but it was Mthokozisi Zulu who really blew us all away with his performance as Wishee Washee, handling all the comedy with full energy.
(Right: Georgina Mabbett-Kelly & Belinda Henwood)
A production of this size and extent requires ”all hands on deck” so all kudos to the technical team of the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre.
This production requires strong technical back-up and that was supplied in full. Well done to Production and Stage Manager Tina le Roux.
Performances are scheduled from 7 December to 14 January, at 2.30pm Tues-Fri, 11h00 and 15h30 on Saturday, and 14h30 on Sunday.
Suitable for all ages 3 years and up.
Tickets range from R150-R265 and can be booked at Webtickets.
The Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre is situated on the UKZN Howard College campus. – Caroline Smart
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