Theatre review: Aladdin panto - Cork Opera House

[rating]4[/rating]

Going to the panto in 2018, in the midst of a gender-centric, #metoo-conscious, politically correct audience has its advantages. With three sons, one takes every opportunity to find teachable moments in our time together. So even though the genie steals the show, the real magic is the powerful princess panto protagonist Jasmine. She’s strong, straight talking, swashbuckling. “This girl doesn’t need looking after,” she tells Aladdin.

She saves herself from the Baddie Abanazar (Bless you! the cast cry every time he announces himself) by grabbing a sword and fighting him herself. When she’s captured, she’s defiant and undaunted and helps orchestrate the escape. The Spice Girls number buoys the girl-power message. “Ooh, she’s good,” says my seven-year-old as our princess tells Aladdin where to go after he invites her to feel his sleeve and confirm it’s boyfriend material.

The entire experience is one of wonder and adventure. We’re brought on a magical carpet ride to a whole new world of crazy characters like the wonderful Wishee Washee, the evil uncle, the wise-cracking genie, and Frank Mackey’s beloved grand dame, Nanny Nellie. Her solo song featuring all the streets of Cork is a joy.

We’re treated to a glittering, fast-paced romp, with the gags coming from all directions. Topical references that have the adults howling include the Beast from the East, Peter Casey, Michael D, and a whole bus full of Billy Murphys from The Young Offenders. Lines from Nanny Nellie like: “You can wear Penneys, when you have a Brown Thomas face,” are much appreciated while the kids adore hissing the Baddie, especially when he comes on stage toting a water gun.

All ages join in with the Baby Shark routine with Wishee Washee for the grand finale.

A razor-sharp script, superb score, creative costumes, sensational set design and a strong ensemble, all brought together by Trevor Ryan’s assured direction makes this a magical (feminist approved) Arabian night to remember.