December is a frantic month, there’s no getting away from that.
Christmas parties, carol services, nativities, shopping and cooking all combine to create a perfect storm that can leave you feeling overwhelmed - add in dodgy weather and an election and it’s a surprise any of us are still upright.
What better way, then, to spend a sleety Saturday afternoon than watching the perfect pantomime? This year’s Whitley Bay Playhouse production really does deserve that description because it has everything you could want in a panto.
The Blue Genie Entertainment team have the formula nailed, and return to the Playhouse every year to perform to a very loyal audience - as was evident by the number of times running jokes and lines were recited back at those on stage by the joyful crowd of regulars. All together now for those in the know: “we’ll have to sing it again, then, won’t we?”
The story is captivating enough to keep even older children entertained - my nine-year-old was spellbound throughout - but the ‘scary’ characters and producer Gary Telfer’s special effects are gentle enough not to be off-putting for little ones.
Steve Walls is simply fantastic as Simple Simon - funny and engaging in character and when interacting with the young audience members who come up on stage at the end to sing and dance. He has some cracking jokes for the grown-ups too - my favourite being the earwig one.
The resident fairy narrator this year is Ashleigh Butler as Fairy Liquid, resplendent in green. A previous winner of Britain’s Got Talent in 2012, she has her performing dog Sully, cousin of Pudsey who starred with her on the TV talent show, in tow. Sully is very cute and an absolutely brilliant performer - he jumps, dances and elicits cheers of delight whenever he trundles on stage.
Another highlight is Daniel Mawston as Dame Patsy Trott - the Boulevard star is absolutely hilarious and a fantastic singer. A rousing finish sees the cast join together in a Spice Girls medley which gets the whole audience on their feet.
Feelgood family fun - the Playhouse have this formula absolutely on point.
Follow Whats On NE
We have a dedicated Facebook page for the latest on what to see and where to drink, eat, shop and go out across Newcastle and the North East.
Follow the page here for the best food, drink and shopping deals, information on all kinds of shows and events, and exclusive looks at new restaurants and bars.
