Aladdin at Oldham Coliseum

Here we go, here we go, here we go…..

Oldham Coliseum presented their delayed production of Aladdin on November 13th. It runs until January 8th. It ticks all the boxes with good singing and dancing, quick changes, outrageous costumes, audience participation, and, of course the inherent gender fluidity that is de rigueur in any pantomime.

The setting has been moved to Oldham and revolves around a launderette where Widow Twankee, Aladdin and Wishee Washee are barely making ends meet, and they’re about to be ousted by the wicked emperor. If that wasn’t enough, the even more wicked (boo, hiss) Aunty Banazar engages in skulduggery to take over the earth by using Aladdin to retrieve the magic lamp. It’s good clean fun and all in the best possible taste. Oh yes it is.

Some nice touches, like naming the policemen Shaw & Crompton, and including places like Dovestones Reservoir and Belle Vue anchored things locally.

The cast of 8 plus the four dancers are ably supported by a 3 piece band, and the occasional fluffing of lines only added to the fun.

Particular mention must be made of Liz Carney who plays Aunty Banazar (boo) splendidly, and Marc Zayat for his camp Jinn of the Lamp.

It’s a great night out with fun for all the family. Just remember to look behind you.

Paul Schofield for Canal St Online.

Details and tix via here  

Published: 18-Nov-2021 (6451)