This year's pantomime in snowy Bridlington really is quite a tonic.

Mark Ritchie, The Stage

22 December 2009

One of the genuine treats of the job of a light entertainment reviewer these days is watching Bernie Clifton at his very best. Described on the publicity as a comedy legend, Clifton is surely as gifted and imaginative a comedy entertainer as this country has ever produced. The compendium of daft prop gags and of course the famous running chicken ride routine are all tightly woven into the pantomime format in which Clifton is a master. Playing Wishee Washee, the younger members of the cast really must be learning so much from him.

As for the aforementioned younger members, both James Cohen as Aladdin and Vicky Hoyles as Princess Jasmine are simply top drawer singers and performers.

A tap dancing Widow Twankey, played by Simon Howe and industrious Chinese policeman, played by Nick Murphy and Adam Dougal augment Clifton's star turn admirably.

A big tick should also go to the very funny Lisa Hanman as the Genie. As part of the illusion act Renleah Experience, and along with partner Steve Bruus, who plays the Emperor, Hanman's skills as an all-rounder really are quite an asset.

With a band in the pit led by musical director Kevin Leach, some superb costumes, kimonos, fluttering fans and cripsy duck gags, as well as the well-choreographed dancers from the Collette Tyler School of Dance, this year's pantomime in snowy Bridlington really is quite a tonic.