It’s Saturday night in Bath. The city’s popular Christmas market is in full swing, the rugby team has just ousted their opponents and its pantomime spectacular has arrived. The place to be it seems…
Fourteen years have passed since Sleeping Beauty was the panto of choice at Theatre Royal Bath. Jon Monie, the ever-present personality at the theatre’s pantos, will remember it well as the stalwart performed as Silly Billy in the 2009 production. In fact, it's a stage Monie is familiar with having performed more than 1,100 times since 1996. Blimey—that’s just two years after this writer was born. Oh, and yes, he is also the writer on this occasion. Where’s his blue plaque?
The stage is transformed into a dazzling display of LED lights, producing a lively sparkle off the theatre’s stunning chandelier. An unrecognisable change from the week before when Twelve Angry Men was performed here.
The show is produced by Martin Dodd’s UK productions, this being one of 11 across the country this Christmas. The star attraction is Neil McDermott, of Eastenders fame, but now boasting an impressive list of theatre credits on the West End, including Pretty Woman and Shrek The Musical.
Pantomime’s tried-and-tested formula is put to good use here, with the list of traditional tropes ticked off in entertaining fashion. Some skits often extend beyond their time and at times the jump sounds push the decibel limit a bit too much.
However, the strength here sits with McDermott’s Prince Vincent and Maisie Sellwood as Princess Rose. The latter portrayed the same role last year at the Blackpool Grand. They both possess wheelbarrow loads of charm, wit and outrageous chessiness. The combo provides that little bit extra and ensures Sleeping Beauty at Theatre Royal Bath is nothing short of pure Panto joy.
A festive extravaganza for all to relish in the beautiful Georgian city.