Aladdin - The Conquest Theatre, Bromyard

12:19pm Wednesday 13th February 2008

GOING to see a pantomime in February is the best time of year to go.

You get to spend two hours sitting in a theatre and pretend it's Christmas - but without the hassle and stress of actually having to do all the Christmas stuff after.

The Conquest Theatre production of Aladdin wasn't a professional production but nonetheless it was as entertaining as any professional show. You would have to be made of stone not to crack a smile at the children's chorus (many aged under six) or chuckle at Widow Twankey's blonde Brian May wig.

With fantastic support from Wishee Washee, Ali Khatt and Mustapha Phagg (get it?) and some truly remarkable voices, Aladdin was thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining.

One of the highlights was when Aladdin and Princess So-Shy clutched onto the magic lamp and sung For We Have Been Promised a Lamp Of Our Own in true panto tradition.

Maybe not the smoothest of productions but its playfulness and sense of community spirit is undeniable.

Aladdin runs at the Conquest Theatre, Bromyard, until Saturday, February 16.

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