There is something truly magical about a classic British pantomime, and this year’s panto at Stockport Plaza of Aladdin, presented by Extravaganza Productions, delivers the golden charm, fun, and glorious, rough-around-the-edges chaos that families adore. This is a show built specifically for the children in the audience, but with enough knowing winks and double entendres to keep the grown-ups chuckling, exactly as a proper panto should be.
This is a performance at its most joyfully unpredictable. Yes, the sound balance occasionally felt a little over-trilled, leading to some hilariously strained notes. And, in a moment that showed the spirit of live theatre, one actor’s ceremonial sword met an untimely end midway through the grand entrance of the Emperor. But to the cast’s absolute credit, they carried on with immense professional enthusiasm, turning every little hiccup into a moment of comic magic.
The absolute highlight, as every year, is the performance of Scott Gallagher as the lovable Wishee Washee. Gallagher has become a fixture of the Plaza panto, and it is easy to see why. His energy is brilliant, his commitment to the audience total, and he knows how to work a crowd better than anyone. From his excellent professionalism during prior pre-press interviews to his hilarious, seamless inclusion of current TikTok trends into the show, a move that had the younger audience members roaring with delight, Gallagher pulls it out of the bag every time.
Karim Zeroual shines as the title character, Aladdin, bringing his beloved presence from CBBC and Strictly Come Dancing to the stage. His charisma and infectious energy captivate the audience, especially the younger viewers who are thrilled to see a familiar television face leading the show. Despite the high standard set by seasoned panto veterans, Zeroual confidently takes the audience on a magical adventure, ensuring a delightful experience for all.
Brian Capron proves to be a menacing, yet wonderfully theatrical, baddie as the wicked Abanazar. Capron lives for the boos with relish, giving the audience a villain they can truly love to hate. I did truly enjoy Barry Bentley’s debut as Widow Twanky. Bentley steps into the traditional dame’s heels with confidence, delivering plenty of slapstick and warmth, particularly in the delightfully messy laundry scenes.
The show faithfully adapts Aladdin’s story, featuring Miles Radley’s Genie. This marks his first acting debut as the Genie of the Lamp, delivering a classic performance while also incorporating Wishee Washee’s flirtatious side. The set pieces, particularly the iconic Magic Carpet Ride, are spectacularly executed. The entire cast, from Mimi Smithson’s delightful Princess Balroubadour to David J. Higgins’ dignified Emperor of China, fully embraces the vibrant high-energy roles.
This classic British pantomime boasts a distinct Stockport flavour. It’s loud colourful a bit naughty and utterly joyous. If you’re looking a show that guarantees family smiles and captures the true spirit of festive head to the Plaza.
Tickets are available for performances from Friday, 5th December 2025 to Sunday, 4th January 2026. – Ticket Link
By James for Canal Street Media