Snow joke as panto dwarf takes a tumble! (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Sunbean steps in as Bradford's super panto proves a winner

10:56pm Tuesday 21st December 2010 in Reviews By Emma Clayton

It was nearly a case of Snow White and the Six Dwarfs tonight, after one of the little men slipped on the snow and ended up in Bradford Royal Infirmary.

But in true panto tradition the show went on, thanks to a plucky Sunbeam who stepped in to take his place.

And with a dancing badger, a pint-sized Elvis, flying carousel horses, jumping spiders and a celebrity nodding dog, the Alhambra panto was in full swing.

This is a beautifully staged show, with enough special effects – thanks to a 3D magic mirror – to keep techno-savvy youngsters happy and plenty of quickfire gags for the grown-ups.

Each scene leapt from the pages of a fairytale book, from the shimmering castle courtyard to the enchanted forest and its delightful dancing creatures.

Flying across the stage on a rope swing, then roaring around in a dodgem, Bradford’s sweetheart Billy Pearce had the audience in his palm. With his extraordinary energy and comic timing, he’s a master of physical comedy, and his endearing appeal gave his performance a touching vulnerability.

His slapstick mirror scene with the Wicked Queen was a delight, and his performance as a lovesick frog had belly laughs erupting all over the auditorium.

Sian Reeves as Queen Lucretia was deliciously devilish, blending spoiled brat tantrums with evil scheming, and she showcased an impressive singing voice with some cracking big numbers. A great performance also from Peter Piper as Oddjob, whose quality impressions ranged from Basil Fawlty to Shrek. Strong performances too from the Magnificent Seven – their Keystone Cops-style scrap was a highlight – Kelly Chinery as Snow White and Stephen Craig as dashing Prince Michael.

And well done to the talented Sunbeams from the Sara Packham Theatre School in Oxenhope.

A gem of a show with enough warmth to melt the December snow.

Runs until February 6, 2011.