On Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 June, the Tithe Barn Theatre was filled with pantomime magic as our Year 7 and Year 8 pupils staged two fantastic productions of Aladdin.
Such was the strength and depth of talent across both year groups that the decision was taken to double cast the show, resulting in two separate performances. Audiences were treated to a double dose of pantomime, each delivering a fast-paced, laugh-a-minute experience and showcasing the very best of Lower School drama.
Directed by Head of Drama, Mrs Emma Farrell, and Resident Drama Graduate, Miss Rachel Schofield, both productions were a triumph of teamwork, creativity, and youthful enthusiasm.
Year 7
The Year 7 performance proved to be a joyful and lively affair from the very moment the curtain rose. Packed with giggles, gasps, and plenty of classic “oh no they didn’t!” moments, the show kept its audience thoroughly entertained throughout.
William Marrison led the cast superbly as Aladdin, giving a charming and engaging performance, while Grace Perkins impressed as Jasmine, adding an exciting twist with her kung fu flair.
The villainous Abanazer, delivered a deliciously dark performance that perfectly balanced menace with humour. In contrast, D Richards brought boundless energy and sparkle to the role of Widow Twankey, commanding the stage with confident comic timing.
The wider ensemble deserve great credit for their enthusiasm and commitment, bringing vibrancy to every scene and elevating the production with lively group numbers. Altogether, it was a feel-good performance that rounded off the half term in style and perfectly captured the spirit of pantomime.
Year 7 Cast:
- Aladdin - William Marrison
- Jasmine - Grace Perkins
- Widow Twankey - D Richards
- Empress - Chloe Conway
- Sgt Ping - JJ Monafred
- PC Pong - Jack Scofield
- Genie of Lamp - Ruby Jones
- Genie of Ring - Odette Edimoh
- Noddy the Panda - B Rickerby
- Guard 1 - Evie Chester
- Guard 2 - E Banwell
- Ensemble:
- Jesse Ball
- Grace Barrett
- Evie Chester
- O Ellis-Jones
- Max Fielder
- E MacDonald
- Freya Nicholson
- William Parle
- Effie Stewart
- Sabrina Verano Luri
- Vespa Warn
Year 8
The following evening, Year 8 delivered an equally entertaining and polished production. From the outset, the audience was hooked, with laughter ringing out consistently from start to finish.
We saw a confident and polished portrayal of Aladdin, while Mabel Reed Ryan impressed as Jasmine, combining strength and elegance with convincing stage presence.
There was an immediate impact from Abanazer, setting a dramatic tone,
Charlie Hodgson and Jacob Walker delighted as Sergent Ping and PC Pong, forming a comedy duo with excellent timing and natural chemistry. Isla Williams added a strong presence as the Empress, balancing the humour with commanding stage presence.
TJ Caunter shone as Widow Twankey, lighting up the stage with charisma and excellent audience interaction. Alongside, Eva Merry and Bodhi Gyoker provided memorable moments of physical comedy, adding further humour to the performance.
The ensemble once again played a vital role, demonstrating excellent teamwork and energy, with full cast numbers proving to be a highlight of the evening. The result was a thoroughly enjoyable and professional production that showcased both talent and dedication.
A special mention goes to Year 8 pupil Xander Fox, who wrote and produced original digital music for the production, adding another creative dimension to the performance while further honing his skills.
Year 8 Cast:
- Jasmine - Mabel Reed Ryan
- Widow Twankey - TJ Caunter
- Wishee Washee - Eva Merry
- Empress - Isla Williams
- Sgt Ping - Charlie Hodgson
- PC Pong - Jacob Walker
- Genie of Lamp - Kitty Martin
- Genie of Ring - Frazer Horne
- Noddy the Panda – Bodhi Gyoker
- Guard 1 - Dexter Penney
- Ensemble:
- Xander Fox
- Leo Marks
- Joey Fox
- Vasylysa Nistratova
- Izzy Parker
- A Woodrow
- Arabella Payne
- Lily Amos Yeo
- Mandy Robb-Hootkins
- Ellie Bacon
- Charlie Thomas
- Jasper Day
- Poppy White
- Austin Gleeson
- Amy Longden
- Arisa Greer
- Charlie Maher
Reflecting on both performances Mrs Farrell said: "All in all these were joyous, feel good, performances that rounded off the half term in style. A brilliant showcase of talent, teamwork and humour - a thoroughly enjoyable celebration of pantomime at its best, just the ticket!"
Both performances of Aladdin were Shiplake drama at it's best, demonstrating the individual talent of our pupils and their ability to collaborate and bring a production to life as a team.
With such high standards on display, we look forward with great anticipation to seeing what these talented pupils will achieve in future productions.
Well done to everyone involved for putting on two truly memorable performances.
