REVIEW: Aladdin,

Ferneham Hall, Fareham

HAVING two young children I’ve watched my fair share of pantomimes - but I’d never seen a Lycra jumpsuit-wearing genie, until now.

Resplendent in full Afro, flares and sequins, Jason Denton was unexpected to say the least. As far away from the traditional genie as possible, Fareham’s funky version was definitely the most original genie I’ve ever seen pop out of an old lamp. Once unleashed from his imprisonment, the cast erupted into a medley of singalong 70’s hits.

TV favourite Clive Mantle, last seen in Game of Thrones and much loved in Casualty and Holby City, pulls on the sparkly black tunic as the evil Abanazaar.

This is a show jam-packed with strong vocals. From the sweet harmonies of the female performers - Genie of the Ring (Karis Anderson), Aladdin (Danielle Haywood) and Princess So-Shi (Divine Cresswell) - to the soulful Emperor (Matt Davitt) who plays lead guitar on a version of Prince’s Kiss. Even Clive Mantle did his best Taylor Swift impression.

There’s one ‘lady’ who deserves special mention - Dame Widow Twankey played flawlessly by Mark Siney. One of the best in the business, he throws himself into the flamboyant role. The poor Mayor of Fareham was the object of his affection throughout!

EMMA ALLEN

Aladdin runs until December 31. Call 01329 231942 or visit

fernehamhall.co.uk.