REVIEW: FIVE STARS FOR THE PANTOMIME ADVENTURES OF PETER PAN
You know it’s Christmas when May McFettridge is flashing her bloomers at The Grand Opera House in Belfast!
It’s panto season and once again our favourite leading lady has delivered! Back in the leading role for her 34th year, our May is as raucous, funny and energetic as ever.
The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan really does delver festive magic. With a great cast and a sparkling production, this show is an unmissable treat for families.
At the heart of the laughter is the ever-brilliant May McFettridge as the dame, May Smee. A seasoned master of pantomime, May delivers sharp wit with her impeccable comedic timing and plenty of quick-witted improvisation. Her on-stage chemistry with Paddy Jenkins, who plays the bumbling Starkey, is a delight, making their scenes together particularly memorable.
Adam C. Booth as Smee is another standout. His boundless energy and cheeky humour—especially his fart gags! —brought peals of laughter from the young (and not-so-young!) members of the audience. Booth’s infectious enthusiasm kept the show buzzing with life from start to finish. How he remembers his long solo, tongue twisting monologues is anyone’s guess – but he really is a class act!
Belfast’s Joleen O’Hara’s glamorous take on Captain Hook is a refreshing twist on the classic villain. Her charisma and commanding presence were matched only by her stunning vocals.
Aisling Sharkey is back for her second year at the Grand Opera House panto and as Wendy brought grace and warmth to the production. Her vocal performance was equally extraordinary, adding emotional depth to the role.
The production itself is a visual feast – there’s acrobats in the shape of The Acromaniacs who deliver an amazing, tumbling spectacle, as well as high flying, graceful aerial performances from Jordan Walker as Peter and Georgia Brierley-Smith as Tink. And of course, the crocodile! Brace yourself for the end of Act 1 for a terrifying sight!
The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan has everything – colourful costumes, vibrant sets, slapstick humour, clever wordplay, and audience interaction. There are sing-alongs, silly gags, and quite a few jokes that had the adults roaring!
With a cast as talented as this and a production brimming with energy and heart, it’s the perfect way to get into the festive spirit. Highly recommended for an evening of laughter, music, and good old-fashioned panto fun!
The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan is at the Grand Opera House until Sunday, January 12. www.goh.co.uk
