It may have been over two years since a panto last graced the Civic stage, but with Sleeping Beauty the gang pick up right where they left off with the fabulous Snow White in 2019.
On opening night, the packed-out theatre was spellbound by the tale of Princess Aurora whose 18th birthday party is ruined when she pricks her finger on a spindle cursed by her wicked aunt Malificent, sending her into a 100-year slumber.
Of course, with any panto the plot is less important than general anarchy and Sleeping Beauty doesn’t disappoint on that score!
The outrageous Dame Dottie (Robert Downes) and hapless Tickles (Kevin Keeley) effortlessly steal every scene they’re in, with hilarious, high-energy performances, giving life to a script packed with zingers and some of the greatest (and most groan-worthy) puns this side of Fairyland. You’ll never hear Celine Dion the same way again...
It’s almost unfair that panto dames get to steal the show, so it was great to see even the ‘normal’ characters – Princess Aurora (Keila Ana Whelan), Prince Bruno (Joe Jennings) and Fairy Lolly (Sarah Harvey) – get their fair share of memorable moments and side-splitting scenes.
And where would a fairytale be without an absolutely awful, over-the-top baddie? Sorcha Furlong laps up the boos as the wicked Maleficent, giving as good as she gets, but still finding time between evil schemes for a couple of show-stopping solo spots.
The main cast are supported by a troupe of brilliant young backing dancers drawn from dance schools across Dublin, who look like they’re having as much fun as the audience!
Overall, from script to sets, costumes to cast, this year’s panto is a magical evening packed with rowdy hijinks, sensational singalongs and pitch-perfect performances – Sleeping Beauty at The Civic is not to be missed!
The show runs until January 8th and tickets have been flying, so make sure to head over to civictheatre.ie to book yours now!
