The Empire continues to build on its solid reputation for presenting first class provincial pantos.
This year’s vibrant and original re-working of Peter Pan is another high-flying success.
TV star and accomplished actor Tony Maudsley and comedian and Empire stalwart John Evans are individually ‘spot on’ and deftly delightful as a double-act.
Their respective timing is a joy to watch as they milk every pun, sight gag and audience participation element.
Wendy and Peter Pan pictured on stage at the Liverpool Empire (Picture: Mark McNulty)
The two-hour, ten minute show - including interval - is packed with plenty of gags and top-notch song and dance routines.
There is something for everyone as it works on so many levels.
John Evans is the panto ‘glue’ that keeps the pace rolling along nice.
(Picture: Mark McNulty)
Bob Tomson’s expert directing ensures there’s never a dull moment.
Benidorm’s Tony as Cutlass Kenneth scales new heights on the camp-o-meter with his likeable kilt-wearing character.
His expressive face radiates the fact that he is loving very minute of appearing on his home-town stage. He connects.
And he is in fine company alongside: Asa Elliott’s Tiger Billy; Louis Emerick’s dim and daft Captain Hook and X Factor star Niki Evans as Mimi the magical mermaid with a warm Brummie accent.
(Picture: Mark McNulty)
Peter Pan (Adam McCoy), Wendy (Cristina Hoey) and Tinker Bell (Georgie Ashford) are all instant hits with the kids.
The show features a superb pirate ship set, scary mechanical crocodile and a lovely underwater scene worthy of the West End.
And it’s great to hear Yellow Submarine and Octopus’s Garden still inspiring an audience to sing-a-long.
There’s also a simple yet well-devised garden wall romantic slapstick sequence – a favourite set piece once used by Morecambe and Wise.
The songs are well chosen throughout notably Crocodile Rock and The Boo Radleys’ Beautiful Morning.
Another highlight is a wonderfully imaginative version of Cilla Black’s Something Tells Me.
You will never think of trumpets in the same light again.
(Picture: Mark McNulty)
Costumes are what you would expect from the QDos Entertainment producers – dazzling in every case.
Lots of magic dust should go to the Liverpool Empire Juvenile Ensemble for smashing team work. And there’s a great five- piece band playing below deck.
This Peter Pan is very well scripted and that certainly allows all the star talents to shine.
5 Stars - Tinsel-Coated Triumph!
On at the Empire until December 29, with tickets available via the box office on 0844 871 3017 or via https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/peter-pan/liverpool-empire/
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