Flamboyance, flair and humour aplenty in Leamington pantomime

IF ‘pantoland’ is calling you home, then this lively production should fulfill all your ‘He’s behind you!’ cravings.

The show begins with a flourish as a chorus of vibrant young singers and dancers fill the stage before we meet all the main characters in turn.

Everyone’s acting is strong, which means you can sit back and relax while the performances carry you along.

Hannah Farquharson is an engaging Snow White and her lovely singing voice makes for some nice duets with dashing Prince Michael, played by Callum Roberts.

When snake-hipped, evil temptress Queen Evilyn struts onto the stage, everyone knows it’s time to ‘boo’ and Rachael Barrington plays the villain with flamboyant flair.

Snow White is a dark tale, but there is enough humour and fun in this production to keep the balance about right.

The kids loved Dame Bree Brightshine, played by Robert Rawles, and JP McCue’s Will the Jester, happily shouting out their catchphrases every time they came on stage. The pair make a good double act and their cream-pie slapstick was a hit.

Popular children’s television presenter Justin Fletcher makes a pre-recorded appearance as the magic mirror. Unfortunately only his voice came through in the first half of our performance, but it was a credit to the actors that they carried on as though this was the plan.

A few too many twists in the sub-plot meant the first act felt too long and confused, but the second act had more pace and kept the youngsters entertained.

An enjoyable show, but perhaps too dark and long for some pre-schoolers.

Holly Whitmill