Panto by talented youngsters provides festive fun in Amble

Christmas time at Whittingham C of E Primary School.

The youth drama group, which coaches children aged between five and 12, ran its traditional version of ‘Aladdin’ for two nights at St Cuthbert’s Parish Hall in Amble.

Set against the colourful backdrop of Widow Twankey’s Laundry (from Manky to Spick and Spanky), the story was narrated by eleven-year-old Blue Juggins, a sort of glamorous Town Crier.

The character of Aladdin, played by Hannah Oliver, sang a solo mid-show, fought off bad guys and handled the responsibility of saving Princess Yasmine very well.

The full cast of the Puffin Theatre Club's panto, Aladdin.

Comic performances of note came from Libby Payne as the nerdy suitor Leopold, William Oliver as the super chilled-out Genie of the Lamp, and Eva Roopra, the haggard and persistent Lamp Seller who would not take no for an answer.

Ensemble dances by the Princess’s handmaidens and the Army of the Emperor were also enjoyed by the audiences who could be seen singing and bopping along to the Macarena and YMCA.

“We’re so proud of our students,” said Sarah Price, co-founder of the club. “They have done incredibly well to deliver such a fun and natural performance in just 12 weeks.”

Partner Rosie Bush added, “We have a really strong team of children who have been with us since we opened two years ago, and some great newcomers too. We’re always happy to welcome fresh faces to the club too.”

Interested parents can get in touch via [email protected] as preparations for the club’s summer play will start in the new year.