THEATRE: WAY FORWARD PROGRAMME WOW WITH THEIR PRODUCTION ‘JOURNEY TO THE LAMP’

The Way Forward Programme should be immensely proud of their festive panto production of ‘Journey to the Lamp’, a tale that follows the adventures of Aladdin as he tries to find a way to be with the beautiful Princess Jasmine, meeting along the way a whole host of friends, from Rudolph to Donny the Camel. Kyle Hollinsworth as leading man Aladdin shone from start to finish; in particular, his vocals during a rendition of ‘Travel Song’ from Shrek: The Musical were excellent, and his relationship with Josh Harding as Abu was lovely. Princess Jasmine, played by Lucy Dreyer, was a lovely mix of sweetness and independence, and it was great to see her supported by a collection of famous princessy faces. Narrator Jacqueline Gray held the story together, and showed not only exceptional stage presence and storytelling, but also kindness and a sharp ear for the story, always ready to help her castmates through the odd mishap. This sort of friendship and care visibly ran through the whole production: each and every person on that stage was looking out for the others, and spotting Aladdin in the wings beaming across at the princesses as they performed ‘Run The World’ was the moment that really summed up the incredible camaraderie that clearly sits at the heart of this group. Dame Way Jai Ho was played by Rachel Stone, whose engagement with the audience and witty ad libs raised many a laugh. Along with Tom, Dick and Harry (Garry Jones, Nathan Bound and Tamsin Baker) she delivered a wonderfully messy baking scene, a real pantomime staple. It is impossible to name every single cast member within a review’s word count, but a special mention has to go to the dancing – nay, breakdancing! – skeletons, Rebecca Algar-Silk and Catherine Nally: their dance moves were standout, not just in their own number but in every ensemble number in which they appeared; also to Emily Bowkis as Jalificent for her laugh-out-loud ‘bit’ as a game show presenter, and to Amie Grimwood for her cheeky and charming turn as Genie of the Lamp. Well-chosen music, from modern hits such as ‘Run the World’ to classics like ‘Come Fly With Me’ helped to keep the energy high, and each was delivered with gusto by confident soloists and ensemble. Everyone who took to that stage, from the Rainbow Group with their opening dance number through to Santa wishing everyone a Merry Christmas at the end of the night, was clearly putting their heart and soul into the show, and that feel-good factor translated straight into those watching, leaving everyone smiling. A pantomime is made or broken on the reaction of the audience, and from the laughter, heckles and applause Way Forward received for ‘Journey to the Lamp’ it is clear that they can mark this pantomime a great success. Reviewed by Emily Scotcher