Aladdin (Windsor)

Aladdin is clearly directed by an experienced production team. It opens quite simply with a series of monologues from the main characters, such as the evil Abanazar (boo! hiss!) played with brilliantly hammed-up acting by Peter Duncan.

This sets the scene and increases the tension before launching into an incredibly slick opening song and dance number. Again, this sets the tone for an action-packed and high-energy performance.

Above all, the pantomime goes back to basics – with a strong cast and a fun-filled show. Basil Brush appears as the Genii, and whether or not you are old to remember him on television, everyone falls in love with this alternative portrayal of the Genii with his "Boom boom everyone!" and the call-back response of "Boom boom Basil!"

It's classic pantomime, but the little fox enthuses even the most austere adult to partake in the show. As I saw the show on its opening night, there were a few hiccups along the way. However, this just highlighted the pantomime’s strength, rather than illustrating any weakness.

Abanazar slipped on custard that had been poured in the wrong place on stage in the previous scene, and had to ad lib a scene whilst Window Twankey (Steven Blakely) cleaned the stage. This was dealt with, with such professionalism and humour, by Blakely and Duncan, that it simply adds to the overall enjoyment of the performance.

This pantomime is full of laughter, song, dance and energy. The audience always are "in on the joke". Aladdin subverts some traditions – Aladdin is played by a boy (Giovanni Spano), who does it superbly. But some of the Theatre Royal's own special traditions – such as the insane interpretation of "The Ttwelve days of Christmas" carol – which has been a staple of its productions for years are kept.

The madness is absolutely encouraged by the audience. This is ultimately a very slick panto – even when things go wrong. Overall the cast is fabulous and its talent shines through. Jasmine Gur, as Princess Jasmine, matches fabulously with Spano’s Aladdin, whilst Kevin Cruise navigates the audience through the production as Wishee-Washee, our MC apparent.

This panto is a must-see if you find yourself in Windsor this Christmas – any production that can have every adult in the audience up and dancing, must be doing something right!