ALADDIN

Shropshire Star
 

Opening shows thrill crowds and get a plug in Parliament
Bosses at the Theatre Severn promised their most spectacular pantomime ever when the curtain went up on this year’s production of Aladdin. And audiences of the show have been thrilled by a magical, all-singing, all-dancing production. The show has even featured in a Parliamentary debalte after being mentioned in the House of Commons by Shrewsbury and Atcham MP Daniel Kawcynski.

Shrewsbury’s pantomime took centre stage in the house as the production was mentioned during a debate on planned cuts to BBC local radio budgets. Mr Kawcynski took the opportunity to plug the production, which has just started a five-week run at theatre Severn – because it features BBC DJ Eric Smith.

He said local presenters are ‘very much admired by the local community who hold politicians to account’. And he added “Can I just put in a plug for Eric Smith, my favourite presenter, who is also appearing in Aladdin at Shrewsbury Theatre playing The Emperor of China and I very much hope people will go and see him over the Christmas period”
Theatre Severn has produced a lavish pantomime that will give others around the country a run for their money. The characters are beautifully drawn and Brad Fitt’s Widow Twankey is a great dame. It’s dramatic and extravagant backdrops and costumes set it apart.

Telford TV personality Paul Hendy wrote the script and the never ending stream of one liners had the audience laughing and groaning throughout. The show had audiences on the edge of their seats as they followed the story of the medieval Arabian hero and his magic lamp.

Wishee Washee was a childrens favourite and youngesters enjoyed his every move – just as much as they hated the evil Abanazer.

The aforementioned Eric Smith put in a great performance as the Emperor of China, delivering his lines with great irony.