Aladdin at Orchard West A Festive Spectacle That Delivers Pure Panto Magic
Orchard West’s production of Aladdin is a glittering triumph that proves why pantomime remains the beating heart of British festive theatre. This isn’t just a show, it’s a raucous, joyful celebration that will have audiences of all ages roaring with laughter and leaving with smiles plastered across their faces.
The secret ingredient to this production’s success? Rikki Jay as Franky Panky. Simply exceptional, Jay is the glue that binds every scene, every world, every magical moment together. His ability to stir the audience into a frenzy is nothing short of masterful. From the moment he bounds onto the stage, you know you and your kids are in safe hands. He’s a panto guarantor, the kind of performer who makes the entire theatre feel like one big, happy family.
Ruby Mann’s Princess Jasmine is a revelation. Her incredible vocal talents and technical skills are matched only by her ability to embody princess vibes with grace and charm. She’s every bit the heroine this story deserves, bringing both strength and sweetness to the role.
Antony Costa brings his own special flavour to Councillor Chigwell, his accent adding a delicious ‘nouveau riche’ edge to this tale of riches and romance. There’s a cheeky quality to his performance that makes him the perfect match for an unexpected romantic twist that will have audiences cackling with delight.
Anton Stephans as the Genie of the Lamp is nothing short of fabulous. His character building and distinctive twang add much-needed spice and edge to the proceedings. This is THE most powerful genie in the world, after all, and Stephans plays him with the swagger and theatrical flair that title demands.
Richard Foster-King’s Sorcerer Sven Gali is the villain we all love to hate from the very first beat. He commits to the role with such relish that you can’t help but boo with enthusiasm every time he schemes and plots his way across the stage.
Cleve September’s Aladdin is the lovable rogue with a megawatt smile that lights up every scene. His approachable, warm performance creates palpable chemistry with the entire cast, making him a true hero worth rooting for.
Jason Marc-Williams delivers a Dame performance for the ages as Widow Panky – a ‘desperate’ single mother who’s still got it, played with both humour and surprising sensitivity. Think of that aunt at a family wedding you simultaneously adore and roll your eyes over. Her eventual pairing with Costa is one of the show’s most delightful surprises – what a cheeky twist!
Mandy Muden as the Spirit of the Ring brings a fabulously petty quality to her genie that makes her utterly relatable. She invites us to laugh with her, not at her, and it’s a joy to be in on the joke.
The production values are pure panto perfection – flashy, glitzy, and impressively theatrical. The costumes and set design honour the best traditions of the form, creating a visual feast that never lets up. Special praise must go to the ensemble, whose sassy, high-energy dance numbers inject even more life into an already vibrant production.
What makes this Aladdin truly special is its humour: immediate, unadulterated, and gloriously unpretentious. There’s no preaching, no lecturing – just good, honest laughs that hit their mark every time. This is raw, joyful fun at its finest.
Orchard West has conjured up a panto that delivers everything the genre promises and then some. It’s a festive treat that will send you home with a full heart and aching cheeks from laughter.
★★★★½
Aladdin continues at Orchard West through the festive season.
Editor in Chief of Ikon London Magazine, journalist, film producer and founder of The DAFTA Film Awards (The DAFTAs).
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