Review: Christmas Panto - Reviewed by Felixstowe News

Spa Pavilion Christmas Panto

‘Sleeping Beauty’, by The Dennis Lowe Theatre Company

Felixstowe News Review

Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Panto, and the Dennis Lowe Theatre Company’s Sleeping Beauty at the Spa Pavilion is as traditional as mince pies and cracker jokes.  Now in its 59th year, this long-standing Felixstowe tradition has delivered yet another fantastic show.

Suzie Lowe takes on the lead role of Sleeping Beauty while also directing the production. She’s clearly at home on stage!

Joining her was Albie Keeble as Prince Eric, in his first pantomime with the company. He threw himself into the role and made a charming prince with great dance moves.

Of course, the Dame is always a highlight of any panto, and Charles Burden’s Dame Dolly didn’t disappoint. With his outrageous costumes (which we were impressed to learn, he designed himself!), and sharp comic timing, he had the audience in stitches from the moment he stepped on stage.

His scenes with Rob Gilbert as Muddles were pure comedy gold, with plenty of silly jokes and slapstick moments that had the kids howling with laughter.

 On the other side of the fairy-tale spectrum, Leeann Ling was wonderfully wicked as Carabosse. She’s been with the Dennis Lowe Theatre Company since she was 16, and it shows – she knows exactly how to work the audience, drawing plenty of boos and hisses.

Balancing her out was Natasha Stevenson as the Fairy, who brought a big dose of humour and sparkle to her role.

 The Panto Babes – Jessica Wilcox, Mila Lowe, Monica Wallace, and Willow Clements – added extra cuteness to the show and it’s clear they’ve worked hard to perfect their routines.

A shout out to the supporting dancers, Ellie Foster, Riley Britchfield, Bex Wilcox and Alex Croft.

The costumes, created by Sylvia Lowe, Natasha’s mum & Bridget Rutherford, were colourful and over-the-top in the best way – Dame Dolly’s outfits, in particular, were a riot.

The lighting by Alli Beaumont and sound by Shaun Everson gave the production a professional feel, while Matt Meyrick kept everything running smoothly as stage manager.

This is classic pantomime done right, with all the usual ingredients: jokes for the kids, a few cheeky lines for the adults, and lots of audience participation. From “he’s behind you” to the singalongs, and the cast made sure everyone felt part of the fun.

If you’re looking for something to kick off your Christmas celebrations, Sleeping Beauty at The Spa Pavilion is the perfect choice. It’s funny, magical, and a wonderful way to make memories with your family. Don’t miss it!

REVIEWER: Luke Smout

Owner, Felixstowe News

Founding Member, Felixstowe's Community Nature Reserve

Advocate for Environmental & Grassroot Conservation

"Congratulations Luke, on all you are doing to help the natural world. Best wishes, David Attenborough"

Sophie Kennelly