This production of Aladdin is undoubtedly at the classier end of the traditional family panto spectrum. It is slickly performed with irrepressible energy by a cast blessed with great singing voices and even better comic timing, and there are many moments of scrumptious festive pizzazz. There is also a welcome dry wit running through proceedings, notably in the choice of the first song for Aladdin (Chris Till): Shine by Take That. Given that he will have to rub an all-important lamp later, this is a fine in-joke at this unsubtle time of year.
But just as you are admiring the wit, along comes the Chinese Policeman, played by Byron Mondahl. This character's role is to revel in that antique comedy staple, the Chinese way with r- and l-sounds. "Harrow, harrow, harrow," he bellows for the first of many times, accusing another character of "climes against comedy". The only crime here is airing hoary xenophobic rubbish in front of children.
It is such a pity, because this is otherwise a tremendously engaging show, led by director Chris Harris (who also plays Widow Twankey with much oomph and a touch of Benny Hill) and starring an Aladdin, Princess and Slave of the Ring who give gutsy, winning singing performances.
The music is a little High School Musical heavy, but other songs are smart choices (such as Greased Lightning in Widow Twankey's laundry) and well-executed. Sets are fast-changing and evocative, and the key scenes are full of impact. Best are the local gags and rivalries, which go down much better than some lazy lines: "A very rich and powerful man", "Chris Tarrant?" rightly bombs. If only someone had checked their diary and seen it was 2007, this could have been great.
· Until January 20. Box office: 01225 448844.
