Geordie panto is just Genie-us

LAST year’s initial panto at the newly-built Gateshead Stadium Theatre was good – but this excellent production is a move into a whole other league.

Bigger and bolder, the auditorium reverberated with laughter and boos throughout the saga of Aladdin’s struggle with the evil Adiventnazza.

As you can tell by the name, Adiventnazza, this is a traditional pantomime spoken in dialect and referencing local areas. It can proudly boast to being a top, professional Geordie panto.

The only exception to all-thingsTyneside was Sarah Challoner, who played Aladdin. Having progressed through the ranks of this troupe over the past decade or so from a dancer to principal boy, her Brummie accent is a delightful contrast.

Challoner has developed into an all-dancing, singing, smiling and acting star in her own right.

A mesmerizing lead, Challoner’s duets with Princess Jasmine (Emily Swan) were tremendous.

Sometimes that would be enough to carry a panto but this production is a who’s who of top North East talent.

Maxie Peters, who writes and directs the show, and Bob Stott are a terrific Ugly Sisters act.

With around 100 years of panto and comedy experience between them, their timing is impeccable. They both have funny bones and it’s a joy watching such seasoned professionals spark off each other.

There’s no need for put-on gurning to garner a cheap laugh; they are incessantly funny.

Then there’s Phillippa Wilson as Adiventnazza, the meanest baddie this side of the Tees. Brian Lonsdale (cast as Wishee Washee) made his panto debut last year and has firmly established himself as leader of the gang, while Viktoria Kay (The Empress) adds further heavyweight thespian status to this ensemble.

Peter Kelly (Emperor), Sherrie McKale (Genie of the Lamp), Dan Constanzo (PC Pong), Gary Walsh (Sgt Ping) and Susan Kenney (Villager Soosie) complete this impeccable line-up. The costumes were stunning and the live band added to a brilliant experience for the packed hall.

Tyneside, not just Gateshead, now has a genuine Geordie panto to rival the very best.

■ Aladdin runs at Gateshead Stadium Theatre until Sunday, December 30. For bookings call 0191 718 5440 or visit: www.gatesheadstadiumpanto.co.uk/booking.php