THE wonder and magic of Christmas is kept alive through the traditional pantomime of Aladdin, all wrapped up with some witty breaks of the fourth wall and hilarious references to Somerset.

Be transported to the world of Old Peking in China, when the fabulous cast of Aladdin makes an appearance at The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil.

The story of Aladdin is told by a wonderful cast through a range of musical numbers, comedy interludes and of course the traditional “They’re behind you” and “Oh yes he is” gags.

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The audience is also treated to a range of local references, from comments about Taunton and Crewkerne as well as some amusing Somerset accents.

The songs are not traditional either. With popular cultural references to George Ezra and The Greatest Showman - you will be dying to sing along. Do remember that a trip to see Aladdin will not be a quiet night in.

Jonny Purchase, who played Aladdin, gave a strong performance throughout the show, with some brilliant musical interludes, particularly about his love for Princess Jasmine, played by Sorsha Talbot-Hunt.

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INTERVIEW: The Magic of Aladdin in Somerset this Christmas 

Sorsha was a wonderful Princess Jasmine, again with a stunning voice, perfect for those multiple musical interludes. Her father, the Emperor of China, is played by John Hester, whose performance was highlighted by his accent and lengthening of words, which at times, was surprisingly funny.

Aladdins brother, Wishee Washee, perfectly narrated most of the show. He was also part of some brilliant comedic sections, alongside the hilarious Widow Twankey, played by Gordon Cooper, and the stern but surprisingly humorous (due to some fabulous uses of alliteration at the start of the show) PC Pongo, played by George Akid.

Widow Twankey also owns her own Laundrette, which created a great backdrop for a scene in which Aladdin and Jasmine were hiding from the Emperor and PC Pongo.

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Trying to ruin the comedy and of course, Aladdins love for Jasmine, was Abanazar, played by Thom Ford. He kept up his evil appearance throughout, even with some occasional breaks of the fourth wall, to remind us that he was open to any famous Shakespearean roles that might be needed in the near future.

The magic of the show was emphasized by the Genie, played by Nathan Elwick, and the Spirit of the Ring, played by Lizzie Frances.

The show reminded us of the importance of family and loved ones at Christmas and that material possessions should always be secondary to this - it was a lovely way to end the festive season. 

If you would like to see the show, please visit octagon-theatre.co.uk