Writer: James Shone
Director: Ian Smith
Ahoy there! This year’s festival family offering from Telford Theatre is a swashbuckling spectacle, loosely
based on the 1882 novel by Robert Louis Stevenson. This adaptation of Treasure Island shares the same spirit of action and adventure but with an added panto injection of glitter, slapstick and silliness.
X-Factor/Same Difference alumnus Sean Smith stars as Jim Hawkins, our strong lead and finder of his father’s long-lost treasure map. In search of hidden riches, Jim sets sail with his friends Captain Smollett and Silly Billy Bones, played by the inimitable comedy pair Ian Smith and Carl Dutfield, who return to Telford by popular demand and are the stars of the show. Smith once again successfully takes on the roles of director, Dame and best dressed.
The quest for treasure is not smooth sailing, as the villainous Long John Silver, portrayed by Coronation Street actor Tom Roberts, is determined to snatch the spoils for himself. However, the Magical Mermaid, played by the delightful Shelley Anne Rivers, and the wise Island Chief, played here by Mariana Jeronimo are on hand to help Jim and his friends. (Sugababes star Amelle Berrabah will play the role of Island Chief from 17 December onwards).
It’s a funny, fast-paced, sparkling voyage complete with fire-eating, Super Soakers and a giant octopus. There is a smattering of musical numbers from our leads, a mix of original compositions and current pop hits, supported by a small but strong ensemble and a live three-piece band under the direction of Alex Williams. S Club 7’s Reach for the Stars and From Now Onfrom The Greatest Showman go down particularly well.
Yes, many of the gags have been done before and much of the storyline is detached from all logic, but double entendres, slapstick and flatulence jokes are of holy pantomime tradition and must be respected, as is audience participation and ‘He’s behind you!’ shticks. All extremely well represented and executed here, and thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Pantomime is often a child’s first exposure to theatre, and this production successfully reels us all in, hook, line and sinker. A fun and slightly anarchic experience for all the family, Treasure Island is a real gem.
Runs until 6 January 2024
The Reviews Hub Score
A real gem
