Time for panto

Could it be Christmas without a pantomime production? The Stage One Theatre Group certainly thinks not and as such a 13-member cast is preparing for a fun December production in English. Bringing one of the most classical pantomimes to the Paphos stage, the theatre group’s adaptation of Aladdin, written and directed by Doug Craig, has plenty of songs, dance and festive cheer for all. Its unexpected twists and a few extra characters aim to make the December shows even more thrilling.

The pantomime version of Aladdin is different to the 1992 Disney film. It is not set in a fictional Middle Eastern town but rather in China where Aladdin’s mother, Widow Twankey, runs a laundry with her two sons helping her. Always in a cheeky mood, messing about in the market square and chasing after the ladies, Aladdin is a colourful character. One day he lays eyes on a princess and becomes charmed. In the land of the Pharaohs though, an evil wizard has other plans for Aladdin as according to a prophecy, Aladdin is the only person able to secure the magic lamp for Abanazer. When the Genie is out of the bottle, the adventure begins.

Exactly this, sprinkled with plenty of singing and dancing, is coming to Stage One theatre in Emba from December 5 to 10. All performances will promptly begin at 7.30pm except for an early performance on Friday December 9 which will take place at 3pm. Hilarious jokes, comic antics, a hint of romance, colourful costumes and adventures make up the panto. With of course, plenty of opportunities for the audience to join in and be taken on a magic carpet ride.

Aladdin

Traditional pantomime, written and directed by Doug Craig. December 5-10. Stage One Theatre, Emba, Paphos. 7.30pm, except for December 9 at 3pm. In English. €15, €8 for children under 16. Tel: 99-967737. [email protected]