FE FI FO FUM, New Wimbledon's Panto is number one!
It's the most wonderful time of the year, a time where we come together and share the magic of the British institution that is pantomime. This years offering at the New Wimbledon Theatre is the timeless tale of Jack and the Beanstalk, and what a production this is. This is top tier entertainment for all the family and for all ages, with dazzling costumes, comedy galore , catchy songs, wonderful sets and amazing special effects.
The casting here is inspired. Alexandra Burke cuts a mean, villainous Mrs Blunderbore, the wife of the giant. She plays the audience expertly, lapping up the boos and hisses but it's her powerhouse vocals in renditions of her hits 'Bad Boys' and 'Hallelujah' that has the audience in raptures.
Joe Pasquale is a comedy genius playing Silly Simon. Whether it is his physical comedy or his quick wit and interactions with the audience (beware if you are in the front row!), he is the comedy gift that keeps on giving with the audience barely being able to catch their breath from their laughter.
Every great pantomime needs a dame and in Ceri Dupree, Wimbledon has one of the finest in the business. His tongue in cheek humour, playful glances at the audience and fantastic voice make him an instant hit with the audience. The costumes are amazing, each one outdoing the previous one with the highlight being his Cher's "Turn Back Time" inspired costume.
And what of our Hero and Heroine. Well, Jack (Benjamin Yates) and Jill (Natalie Chua) are absolutely superb, both fantastic singers and dancers and help the plot run smoothly alongside their fellow cast members. Ria Jones is a wonderful Spirit of the `Beans, reassuring us that with a little bit of panto magic, everything will be ok for Jack and Jill. Jones has a beautiful voice and also contributes to the comedy elements of the panto, particularly in the hilarious 'hissing pit' sketch with Pasquale and Dupree.
The chemistry between the cast is clear for everyone to see, with one of the funniest Twelve Days of Christmas you're ever likely to see, with the ad-libbing proving to be a highlight. The ensemble are full of energy delivering great choreography and vocals throughout.
The orchestra, under the direction of Edward Court, sound amazing. Wimbledon really has excelled itself this year with the special effects, a massive giant that soars over the audience and a flying motorbike at the end of act one to name a few.
This panto delivers on every single level and has something for the whole family, you will be hard pushed to find a better panto regionally this season.
Jack and the Beanstalk runs until 5th January 2025.
★★★★★ (5*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest | Photography by Danny Kaan
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