PANTO legend Elaine C Smith stole the show at Glasgow’s King’s Theatre with her impeccable comic timing. She and actor Darren Brownlie formed quite the double act as Queen Mary and Dishy Fishy in this year’s lavish production of The Little Mermaid.
But there were also plenty of laughs to be had across town at the newly-refurbished Citizens Theatre thanks to Tyler Collins as the hapless Baron Aaron – and Elicia Daly as wacky housekeeper Mrs Flobberlyboo – in Beauty and the Beast.
Both productions pitched classic fairytale with Scottish banter and were a joy to behold.
The Citizens’ interpretation followed Beauty as she embarked on a journey to the bright blue Beast’s house in the hope of reclaiming her family’s wealth.
The show was narrated by wickedly-funny pets Captain Biscuits and Mr Mittens, played by Martin Donaghy and Michael Guest.
It opened with an interactive musical performance of Christmas songs – an excellent touch that got the audience in the festive spirit – then Tyler Collins had the crowd in stitches as the hilarious Baron Aaron, Beauty’s quirky father.
Elicia Daly’s Flobberlyboo had the audience laughing until they were sore – and she still retained the comedic relief when her character’s storyline took an unexpected turn. The set – essentially the Beast’s castle – was almost dreamlike, with a Beast-shaped fireplace – often more terrifying than the Beast itself- taking centre stage.
My only criticism? There could have been more music. There weren’t any songs throughout the show, which was a bit of a letdown. Classic panto lines were also missing – which meant less audience participation.
Over at the King’s, the incredible set captured the magic of the sea right from the word go. Cascading bubbles blew into the audience as they took their seats for The Little Mermaid, and the set became more lavish as the show went on.
We followed Johnny Crabstix, played by Johnny Mac, on his adventure to help his best friend Ariel find her Prince Charming. Crabstix was a big hit with the kids in the audience; he captured the magic of the character brilliantly.
Elaine C Smith and Darren Brownlie were laugh-a-minute, and there was truly no better panto villain than Hannah Jarret-Scott as the Sea Witch.
But the main difference came in production values, which at the King’s were comparable to that of the West End. The dancers dazzled in stunning costumes, and there were many incredible live musical numbers…from much-loved classics to favourite show tunes.
It was a true panto extravaganza.
Currently in 3rd year studying Journalism, Media and Communications with Social Policy.
Leave a Reply