Pantomime season has well and truly arrived, and the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is serving up a delightfully chaotic dose of festive fun with its production of Sleeping Beauty. Directed by David Janson, this all-singing, all-dancing spectacle is running at the venue until January 4, promising two hours of bonkers entertainment, naughty humour, and plenty of slapstick.
A Whacky Welcome to Bilstonia
The show, co-written by stars Tam Ryan and Ian Adams, transports the audience to the fictional realm of 'Bilstonia'. Ryan plays the cheeky Mickey Fortune, while Adams takes on the role of Dame Mary Fortune. The production pulls talent from across Britain, creating a vibrant and energetic ensemble that drives the show's infectious spirit.
While the classic tale provides the framework, it's the cast's camaraderie and sheer verve that truly bind this panto together. From RuPaul's Drag Race UK star Danny Beard, who brings a powerful vocal performance to the villainous Carabosse, to the talented young performers playing mini princes and princesses, every contributor helps build the chaotic world brick by brick.
Standout Scenes and Stellar Performances
Among the many memorable moments, the cast's rendition of the '12 Days of Christmas' stands out for its exceptional slapstick and musical comedy. Expect unexpected props like a three-cupped bra and a barrage of cream pies, culminating in a hilariously shocking series of slips and falls from Tam Ryan and co-star Solomon Davy, who plays Prince Stephen.
Alongside the expected comedy, the production offers genuine moments of storytelling. Davy, aged just 22, and Georgia Iudicia-Davies as Sleeping Beauty, deliver a moving performance of Bruno Mars's 'Die With A Smile' that showcases their impressive talent. The show also features notable performances from Debra Stephenson as the Queen, who showcases sharp impersonations of figures like Donald Trump and Paloma Faith, and Zak Douglas as Gerald the Herald, whose character arc provides one of the show's biggest twists.
A Triumph of Teamwork
Beyond the stellar cast, credit must go to the creative team behind the scenes. The striking and spellbinding set design forms a perfect backdrop for the mayhem, while the ensemble's technical dance skills and the live orchestra provide a solid foundation for the whole production.
This is a pantomime that embraces its own madness with open arms, delivering relentless energy and laughter. Sleeping Beauty at the Wolverhampton Grand is a festive highlight not to be missed this Christmas season. Tickets are available via the theatre's official website.
