It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the York Theatre Royal, where the magic of pantomime has descended in full force with Aladdin. Last night, we joined a packed house of families, friends, and festive revellers to experience this much-anticipated production. Let us take you on a whirlwind carpet ride through the evening, filled with glitz, giggles, and glee!
A Star-Studded Cast Brings the Fun
Leading the cast is CBeebies and CBBC star Evie Pickerill, who charmed as the ethereal Spirit of the Ring. Her bubbly energy, effortless grace, and enchanting voice had the youngest members of the audience transfixed, while her knowing winks and playful banter kept the adults chuckling. Evie’s stage presence is magnetic, and her chemistry with the rest of the cast set the tone for the evening’s mischief.
Sario Solomon, fresh from his role in the Grease UK tour, shines as the titular Aladdin. With his boyish charm, smooth vocals, and knack for physical comedy, Sario breathes life into the street-smart hero. His scenes with the radiant Emily Tang as Princess Jasmine were as sweet as a stocking full of candy canes, blending classic fairy tale romance with a cheeky pantomime twist.
As is tradition, much of the evening’s hilarity was anchored by the inimitable Robin Simpson as Dame Dolly. Reunited with his comic foil, Paul Hawkyard, as the boo-worthy villain Ivan Tobebooed, their larger-than-life antics brought roars of laughter from every corner of the theatre. Robin’s quick wit and dazzling costume changes (each more outrageous than the last) were a masterclass in panto hilarity, while Paul’s menacing growls and exaggerated villainy delighted the audience’s inner child.
Special mention must go to Tommy Carmichael as Charlie and Rowan Armitt-Brewster as PC World, whose comedic timing and slapstick routines added an extra layer of absurdity to an already riotous production.
Festive Flourishes Galore
Directed by the talented Juliet Forster and written by panto maestro Paul Hendy, Aladdin delivers everything you’d expect from a York Theatre Royal pantomime: dazzling visuals, toe-tapping tunes, and a script packed with local references and topical gags.
The musical numbers, arranged by Ed Gray and performed by a live band, were a real highlight. From Sario’s soaring ballads to ensemble numbers bursting with energy, the music was a perfect blend of pop hits, festive favourites, and original songs. Let It Shine fans were treated to a nostalgic nod as Sario channelled his boy band roots in a show-stopping group number.
The choreography by Hayley Del Harrison kept the ensemble on their toes—literally—delivering synchronized routines full of flair and festive sparkle. The younger members of the audience were especially captivated by the show’s vibrant staging, with its glittering market stalls, the opulent Sultan’s palace, and, of course, the spellbinding magic carpet ride.
Panto Magic and Local Flavour
Pantomime thrives on audience interaction, and Aladdin is no exception. The cast broke the fourth wall with gusto, inviting cheers, boos, and even some mischievous heckles. The classic “it’s behind you!” moments were met with gleeful screams, while Robin Simpson’s ad-libs kept us guessing (and laughing) throughout the night.
York-specific jokes and a sprinkling of Yorkshire dialect gave the show a warm, local touch. References to York landmarks and cheeky nods to the city’s quirks had the audience laughing knowingly—another reason why this production feels so special to its hometown crowd.
A Panto for Everyone
What makes Aladdin at York Theatre Royal truly spectacular is its broad appeal. It’s a panto that effortlessly caters to all generations. The kids in the audience were wide-eyed at the magic carpet ride and the slapstick silliness, while parents and grandparents chuckled at the sly adult humour and topical asides.
The production’s message of love, bravery, and staying true to oneself resonates with the spirit of the season, leaving us all with a glow warmer than a mug of mulled wine on a frosty night.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a sprinkle of magic to your festive season, look no further than Aladdin at York Theatre Royal. With its stellar cast, stunning production values, and a script that hits all the right notes, this is pantomime at its finest. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-timer, you’ll leave the theatre humming, laughing, and ready to shout, “Oh yes, it is!”
Aladdin runs until January 5, 2025, so grab your tickets and prepare for a magical evening. After all, as the Spirit of the Ring might say, your wish for festive fun has just been granted!
THE FRONT ROW 
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