‘It’s Behind You!’ Aladdin, Orchard West, Dartford. 16.12.2025
Tonight, it was time for round 2 of Panto press night! Heading back to the Orchard West for this years production of Aladdin! Christmas jumper wearing, I was very much looking forward to Imagine Theatre’s rendition having enjoyed last years Sleeping Beauty. I was not disappointed!
This pantomime was exactly how I remember pantomimes should be, bursting with audience participation, from the timeless cries of “It’s behind you!” to the entire theatre calling out for Franky to answer his phone. Brilliant comical moment. like the chaotic police officer chase, cheeky slip-ups, and joyful breaking of character, just gave it that wonderfully live, anything-could-happen energy. Add in a larger-than-life dame, children dancing their hearts out, a comical clown, a proper villain, a princess and a heroic lead, and you have pantomime in its purest, most perfect form. It felt deeply nostalgic, and being able to show Maisie the magic of live theatre and one of the reasons I fell in love with it, made the experience a memorable night. From the moment the curtain rose, there was heart, care, and genuine passion radiating from the entire cast. Their enjoyment was unmistakable, and that joy carried straight into the audience, making everyone feel included, entertained, and part of the fun from start to finish.
As with every pantomime, it’s customary to headline a well-known name that audiences instantly recognise. Unfortunately, The Orchard’s advertised star had to step down, but stepping into the role of the Councillor, reportedly with only a day’s rehearsal, if that! Was none other than Blue’s Antony Costa. To say he had only rehearsed that morning was almost unbelievable, as he took to the stage with the confidence of someone who had been part of the production for weeks. There were no slip-ups, no hesitation, and he quickly proved himself an audience favourite, especially when he treated the crowd to a solo rendition of Blue’s classic One Love.
Returning for a second year, Cleve September goes from playing a prince to Aladdin with a refreshing and impressive shift. Trading regal polish for a more down-to-earth, street-smart hero allowed Cleve to show a different side of his performance, bringing warmth, relatability, and cheeky charm to the role. It was also great to see more of him on stage, giving him the opportunity to truly show off his commanding stage presence, impressive dancing skills, and above all his powerful vocals. Each solo he was given suited him perfectly, allowing his voice to shine and adding real impact to the production, further cementing him as a standout performer throughout the pantomime. Joining him on stage were his Dame mother, Widow Panky, and brother Franky Panky, played by Jason Marc-Williams and Rikki Jay, who together formed a fantastic partnership along with some solo moments that were packed with perfectly timed comic moments. Jason, in particular, dazzled as the Dame, delivering a parade of stunning outfits, each one more outrageous and impressive than the last all while fully embracing the larger-than-life spirit of the role. Rikki had the audience engaged and involved from the very moment he stepped on stage, effortlessly leading the call-and-response moments that make panto so special. Together, they ensured everyone felt part of the fun, just as true panto performers should, peppered with brilliant one-liners and off-script puns that had even their fellow cast members struggling not to laugh.
Rounding off the leading cast was Ruby Mann as Princess Jasmine, who brought a beautiful voice and a gentle, confident stage presence that the audience warmed to instantly. On the opposite end of the spectrum was the villainous Sven Gali, played by Richard Foster-King, who relished every chorus of boos and still managed to wow the audience with a standout rendition of Lady Gaga’s Born This Way. And of course, there wouldn’t be an Aladdin without a lamp and a genie, but doubling the magic with the Spirit of the Ring gave us two unforgettable genies in Anton Stephans and Mandy Muden. Both were an absolute joy to watch, injecting the production with humour, charm, and that extra touch of glitter and sparkle that truly elevated the show.
Everything about this evening screamed pantomime, from a song selection guaranteed to have you dancing in your seats to jokes that had the audience belly-laughing throughout. It was the kind of show where you leave the theatre smiling, spirits lifted, and feeling that little bit more festive than when you arrived. After all, what is a British Christmas without a pantomime? Pretty dull, if you ask me, and this production delivers absolutely everything you could want from the tradition.
Playing at the Orchard West Theatre until Sunday 4 January, for all ticket information click here. I already can’t wait for next years already announced pantomime Cinderella, at the Orchard Theatre!
