Director: Rob Salmon
Writer: Pete Rowe
Welcome to Kirkgate Market, the vibrant heart of Leeds, bursting with lights, music, and excitement. This year’s production of Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto transforms the beloved tale into a whirlwind of energy and song. The story opens to the electrifying sound of Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars’ Uptown Funk, introducing us to Aladdin (Harry F Brown) – here affectionately named Alvin – a cheerful dreamer employed by his flamboyant mother, Widow Tallulah Tightbottom (Widow T). Widow T presides over the Wash and Nosh Emporium, a bubbly café-laundry brimming with humour and chaos.
Across this lively market scene, Princess Peachblossom (Laura Andresen Guimaraes) has slipped away from her father’s imposing Harewood estate in search of authentic experiences beyond her palace walls. Her fateful encounter with Aladdin is marked by an immediate connection. Although their worlds are separated by class and circumstance, an undeniable spark ignites between them. Yet shadows lurk amidst the merriment. The villainous sorcerer Abanazer (Kenny Davies) prowls nearby, intent on discovering a magic lamp rumoured to be hidden beneath Leeds itself. His plan hinges on finding someone naïve enough to retrieve it for him.
Determined to win over Princess Peachblossom, Aladdin enlists his mischievous monkey companion Muddles (Maddie Hansen) for help in a spirited number – Monkey Man – but their ruse is quickly uncovered. Banished from Harewood by royal decree, they fall prey to Abanazer’s deceitful scheme: he lures Aladdin underground in search of the fabled lamp before abandoning him there. In desperation, Aladdin rubs the lamp and is astonished when the Genie (Lucy Wells) appears singing I Can Help, transforming him into a prince.
The curtain rises on Act Two within Al’s Place—a dazzling new nightclub where revelry reigns as the band launches into Land of 1000 Dances. But Abanazer has survived; he plots revenge and as calamity unfolds, with Abanazer stealing back the magical lamp, Widow T rallies spirits through empowering performances such as Abracadabra and I Will Surviv”, while Genie celebrates newfound freedom with It’s a Kind of Magic. Ultimately it falls upon Tommy, Princess Peachblossom, Widow T and Muddles to unite; together they rescue Genie from captivity and defeat Abanazer once and for all.
Simon Knock’s Dame Tallulah is truly wonderful – equal parts naughty and nice. He delivers jokes at such a rapid pace that you almost miss the next one because you are still laughing at the last. His chemistry with the entire cast is undeniable, but it is particularly electric with Guy Freeman as Tommy the Tyke, the traditional village idiot. Together, they form a powerhouse comedy duo whose timing and wit elevate every scene.
Each year, the cast of City Varieties’ pantomime seem to grow ever more multitalented. This ensemble not only sings and dances but also plays multiple musical instruments live on stage, embodying their larger-than-life characters as though born to pantomime tradition. Their energy and versatility bring an infectious joy to every performance.
Rob Salmon’s direction is as flawless as ever, never missing a comedic or musical beat. The production brims with clever modern culture references – from 6/7 to Just Eat and Jet2 – which ensure that audiences of all ages remain engaged and entertained throughout. In every respect, Aladdin: The Rock ’n’ Roll Panto sets a new standard for festive fun in Leeds.
A trigger warning is warranted for those planning to attend Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto, particularly regarding the use of flashing merchandise. It is important to recognise that this is pantomime, an experience designed to be vibrant, energetic, and above all, inclusive for children. As part of the event, flashing toys and merchandise are sold at the venue with the clear intention that children will switch them on and wave them around during the performance. Ultimately, when booking tickets for Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto, patrons should do so with full awareness of the vibrant environment they are entering. The joy and participation of children are central to the pantomime experience; attempting to restrict this would be contrary to its very spirit.
This innovative retelling not only celebrates classic panto traditions but also infuses them with infectious rock ‘n’ roll spirit, making Aladdin: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto an unmissable event at City Varieties this season.
Runs until 11th January 2026
